2008 Alpina B3 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Alpina B3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen Golf 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 153 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alpina B3 weights approximately 285 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2008 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alpina B3 | 2004 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Alpina | Volkswagen |
| Model | B3 | Golf |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3347 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 266 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.8 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.1 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
