2008 Alpina B3 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Alpina B3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alpina B3 (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (125 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 2008 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alpina B3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Alpina B3 (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (169 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alpina B3 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Alpina | Volkswagen |
| Model | B3 | Passat |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
