2007 Alpina B3 vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Alpina B3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Alpina B3 would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alpina B3 (360 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3.
Because 2007 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 2007 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2007 Alpina B3 (501 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2007 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2007 Alpina B3 has automatic transmission and 2012 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2012 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Alpina B3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alpina B3 | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Alpina | Audi |
| Model | B3 | A3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 501 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2578 mm |
