2006 Alpina B3 vs. 1996 Vector M12
To start off, 2006 Alpina B3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Vector M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Vector M12 would be higher. At 5,707 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Vector M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Vector M12 (484 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 2006 Alpina B3. (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Vector M12 should accelerate faster than 2006 Alpina B3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Vector M12 weights approximately 4 kg more than 2006 Alpina B3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Vector M12 (576 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Alpina B3. (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1996 Vector M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alpina B3 | 1996 Vector M12 | |
| Make | Alpina | Vector |
| Model | B3 | M12 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 5707 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 484 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1626 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2750 mm |
