2006 Alpina B5 vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 2006 Alpina B5 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Alpina B5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alpina B5 (492 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 1997 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW M3.
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, 2006 Alpina B5 (701 Nm) has 465 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2006 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3. 2006 Alpina B5 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Alpina B5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alpina B5 | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B5 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 492 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 701 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Top Speed | 314 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2710 mm |
