2008 Alpina B3 vs. 1998 BMW 316
To start off, 2008 Alpina B3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,347 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alpina B3 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alpina B3 | 1998 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B3 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3347 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 266 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.8 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
