2009 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Alpina B3
To start off, 2011 Alpina B3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2011 Alpina B3. (355 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Alpina B3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2011 Alpina B3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Alpina B3 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW M3. (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2011 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW M3. 2011 Alpina B3 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Alpina B3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2011 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | BMW | Alpina |
| Model | M3 | B3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
