2003 Alpina B3 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 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 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 1190 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. 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, 2006 Mazda 3, 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 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alpina | Mazda |
| Model | B3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.1 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
