2004 Alpina B3 vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2004 Alpina B3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alpina B3 weights approximately 39 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour, 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, 2004 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2004 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alpina B3 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Alpina | Ford |
| Model | B3 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6625 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 270 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
