2009 Alpina B3 vs. 1988 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 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 @ 6200 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2009 Alpina B3.
Because 2009 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 525. 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 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina B3 | 1988 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 239 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 254 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 11.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
