2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Alpina B5
To start off, 2011 Alpina B5 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Alpina B5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alpina B5 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 393 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alpina B5 weights approximately 550 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Alpina B5 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 2011 Alpina B5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2011 Alpina B5 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 555 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 2011 Alpina B5 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Alpina B5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2011 Alpina B5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alpina |
| Model | 3 | B5 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1600 cc | 4397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 300 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
