2009 Alpina B3 vs. 1999 Opel Signum
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Signum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Signum would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1999 Opel Signum. (208 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina B3 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1999 Opel Signum. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Alpina B3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Opel Signum, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Signum. (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Signum. 1999 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 2009 Alpina B3 has manual transmission. 2009 Alpina B3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina B3 | 1999 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Alpina | Opel |
| Model | B3 | Signum |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 264 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
