2006 Alpina B7 vs. 1996 Audi A3
To start off, 2006 Alpina B7 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alpina B7 (492 HP) has 392 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alpina B7 weights approximately 816 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Alpina B7 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 2006 Alpina B7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, 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, 2006 Alpina B7 (700 Nm) has 564 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (136 Nm). This means 2006 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3. 2006 Alpina B7 has automatic transmission and 1996 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 1996 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Alpina B7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alpina B7 | 1996 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Alpina | Audi |
| Model | B7 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 492 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 77.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 300 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1134 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2520 mm |
