2009 Alpina B3 vs. 1961 BMW 501
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,347 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alpina B3 (301 HP) has 201 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina B3 weights approximately 180 kg more than 1961 BMW 501. 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, 2009 Alpina B3 (362 Nm) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2009 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina B3 | 1961 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B3 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3347 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 110 L |
