2009 Alpina Roadster vs. 1998 BMW 316
To start off, 2009 Alpina Roadster is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alpina Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alpina Roadster (296 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina Roadster should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina Roadster weights approximately 145 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. 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 Roadster (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Alpina Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina Roadster | 1998 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | Roadster | 316 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 265 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.3 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
