2009 Alpina B3 vs. 1997 Chevrolet Express
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Chevrolet Express. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Chevrolet Express would be higher. At 5,735 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alpina B3 (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Express. (252 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Express. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 830 kg more than 2009 Alpina B3.
Because 2009 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Chevrolet Express. 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, 1997 Chevrolet Express (448 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alpina B3. (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina B3 | 1997 Chevrolet Express | |
| Make | Alpina | Chevrolet |
| Model | B3 | Express |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 5735 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 448 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 2390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 2030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3440 mm |
