2009 Alpina B3 vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Astra 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 162 more horse power than 1998 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina B3 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1998 Opel Astra. 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 1998 Opel Astra. 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 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina B3 | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Alpina | Opel |
| Model | B3 | Astra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 80.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
