2008 Alpina B5 vs. 2003 Holden Astra
To start off, 2008 Alpina B5 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Holden Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Holden Astra would be higher. At 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Alpina B5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alpina B5 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 373 more horse power than 2003 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alpina B5 should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alpina B5 weights approximately 660 kg more than 2003 Holden Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Alpina B5 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 B5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Holden Astra, 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 B5 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 535 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Alpina B5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Holden Astra. 2008 Alpina B5 has automatic transmission and 2003 Holden Astra has manual transmission. 2003 Holden Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Alpina B5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alpina B5 | 2003 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Alpina | Holden |
| Model | B5 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4396 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2610 mm |
