2009 Alpina B3 vs. 2000 Caterham C21
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham C21 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 161 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina B3 weights approximately 875 kg more than 2000 Caterham C21. 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 2000 Caterham C21. 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 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina B3 | 2000 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Alpina | Caterham |
| Model | B3 | C21 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2260 mm |
