2007 Alpina D3 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2007 Alpina D3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,347 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Alpina D3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alpina D3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alpina D3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alpina D3 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2007 Alpina D3 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 D3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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 D3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2007 Alpina D3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.

Compare all specifications:

2007 Alpina D3 1997 Volkswagen Golf
Make Alpina Volkswagen
Model D3 Golf
Year Released 2007 1997
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3347 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 5 valves
Horse Power 301 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 362 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 1750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 93.9 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 9.5:1
Top Speed 266 km/hour 212 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 5.8 seconds 9.4 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1525 kg 1265 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4160 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1740 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 55 L