2009 Alpina B7 vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 2009 Alpina B7 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alpina B7 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 233 more horse power than 1997 BMW S3. (260 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina B7 weights approximately 622 kg more than 1997 BMW S3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 B7 (700 Nm) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW S3. (330 Nm). This means 2009 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW S3. 2009 Alpina B7 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Alpina B7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina B7 | 1997 BMW S3 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B7 | S3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4397 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 300 km/hour | 258 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3140 mm | 2710 mm |
