2012 Audi A3 vs. 2009 Alpina B7
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Alpina B7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Alpina B7 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 293 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina B7 weights approximately 530 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Alpina B7 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Alpina B7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 @ 4250 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2009 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Audi A3 | 2009 Alpina B7 | |
| Make | Audi | Alpina |
| Model | A3 | B7 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 4397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 3140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 88 L |
