2003 Alpina B3 vs. 2006 Alpina B5
To start off, 2006 Alpina B5 is newer by 3 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 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Alpina B5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alpina B5 (492 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 2003 Alpina B3. (277 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alpina B3.
Because 2003 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Alpina B5. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Alpina B5 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alpina B3. (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 2006 Alpina B5 | |
| Make | Alpina | Alpina |
| Model | B3 | B5 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 4396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 492 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 4.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.7 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
