2003 Opel Astra vs. 2009 Alpina B3
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Astra would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 2003 Opel Astra. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina B3 weights approximately 154 kg more than 2003 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel 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, 2009 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Astra. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 2009 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | Opel | Alpina |
| Model | Astra | B3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 3346 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 362 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 93.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 271 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 5.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 63 L |
