2003 Alpina B3 vs. 2005 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2005 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alpina B3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alpina B3 would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (302 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 2005 Vauxhall Astra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Vauxhall Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 300 kg more than 2005 Vauxhall Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Alpina B3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Vauxhall Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Vauxhall Astra. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Vauxhall Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 2005 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | Alpina | Vauxhall |
| Model | B3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
