2009 Alpina B3 vs. 1996 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alpina B3 (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1996 TVR Chimaera. (225 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1996 TVR Chimaera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina B3 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1996 TVR Chimaera. 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 1996 TVR Chimaera. 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, 1996 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alpina B3. (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina B3 | 1996 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Alpina | TVR |
| Model | B3 | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 57 L |
