2009 Alpina B3 vs. 1986 BMW 316
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alpina B3 (276 HP) has 190 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina B3 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1986 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 BMW 316. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Alpina B3 (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina B3 | 1986 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B3 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1573 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 86 HP |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
