2009 Alpina B3 vs. 2004 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 320 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 128 more horse power than 2004 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 320 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2009 Alpina B3.
Because 2009 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 BMW 320. 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, 2004 BMW 320 (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alpina B3. (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina B3 | 2004 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 251 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
