2008 BMW 540 vs. 2011 Alpina B3
To start off, 2011 Alpina B3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 540 would be higher. At 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2011 Alpina B3.
Because 2011 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 540. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Alpina B3 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 540. (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2011 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 540.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 540 | 2011 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | BMW | Alpina |
| Model | 540 | B3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 3000 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 355 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
