2007 Alpina B3 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 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 247 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (113 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
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 Mazda 3, 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 231 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2007 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2007 Alpina B3 has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Alpina | Mazda |
| Model | B3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 501 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2639 mm |
