2003 Alpina B3 vs. 2012 BMW 520
To start off, 2012 BMW 520 is newer by 9 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 3,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (276 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2012 BMW 520. (182 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 520.
Because 2003 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 BMW 520. 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, 2012 BMW 520 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alpina B3. (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 2012 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B3 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3300 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
