For years, there’s been debate about whether or not to buy ALPINAs over M cars. Both are built off of standard BMWs and both offer incredible speed and performance. However, they both go about it in very different ways. In the case of the BMW M3 and ALPINA B3, both are based off of standard 3 Series but the M3 is a tire-shredding track monster while the B3 is a high-speed, leather-lined ballistic missile. Both are wonderful and highly desirable, so the choice between the two has always been difficult. Though, I think the choice will be made much easier with this new generation of these cars for one simple reason — Kidney Grille.
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There is very little doubt about the size of BMW M3 grille
When the next-gen (G80) BMW M3 makes its official debut, it will boast a Kidney Grille design like Gary Busey’s teeth. Not only have we been told this by our sources at BMW but we’ve also seen some recent leaked photos of a production-ready grille (seen below). It’s enormous.
BMW M3/M4 Grille — Leaked Photo
On the other hand, the ALPINA B3 has a nice, normal-sized BMW grille. Not only that but the grille will feature vertical slat inlays, rather than the new pattern found on M Performance cars, which is refreshing to see. What’s interesting is that the pair of kidneys on the front of the ALPINA B3, and the G20 3 Series in general, are huge by traditional BMW standards but are downright tiny compared to the new M3.
Both the G80 BMW M3 and ALPINA B3 will be extremely fast. Despite using a version of the same engine, the M3 will have more horsepower, making 473 hp and 503 hp (standard and Competition, respectively), compared to the 462 hp of the ALPINA. However, the B3 will have more torque, 516 lb-ft, compared to the 442 lb-ft of the M3. So the B3 should feel punchier while the M3 should feel more manic, more motorsport-inspired.
If it’s my money, I’m taking the ALPINA B3 without question over the next-gen M3. The choice has always been one I struggle with, as they’re both such different cars and have their strengths and weaknesses. But now, with the M3 having a face like a Bane mask, I’m taking the ALPINA and never looking back.
Completely agree with you Nico!
They’re going to ruin the new M3’s front with:
1.- The hood line return
2.- Giant kidneys with license plate in the middle of them
3.- Horizontal slats, making it look like and Audi (worse, because Audi doesn’t have hood lines), with its kidney ‘vertically broken’ in the middle.
You mean “… with its twin lung vertically broken in the middle.”
ALPINA B3 is the new M3.
It’s funny, of the regulars that comment, there are maybe 2-3 posters that consistently express their positive opinions about the new grille (troll doesn’t count as he’d defend an Aztek if it had a roundel slapped on it).
While I think it’s great to see diversity of opinion, I’d venture to say that the mass majority of feedback has been negative on the Concept 4/G80 grille debacle.
The real question is what objective metrics will be used to determine that a product design is a success or failure?
Sales
Wrong, typing.
Troll say right on, DB!
Why oh why?
Do you keep on typing? Tbi.
I agree that the majority of comments has been negative in the comments section and on the forums. My question is why is the negativity so aggressive with any new BMW product? Are BMW fans just more rabid or wary of any change?
Other marquees have been using gigantic grilles for some time and I don’t recall such strong hate across the internet. The Audi A6 and A4 use a massive hexagon grille but didnd’t get the same negativity.
Audi has always had huge grille, not BMW.
Audi hasnt always had huge grilles
For the last ten years or so they have had hideously large grills.
I find it quite atractive especially comparing to older audis
Exactly.
only online where most is negative…at the actual dealerships the clients love the new designs and BMW know this…thats why it wont change its approach
Please tell BMW the USA needs the B# in the USA. Might as well throw in a couple of hundred Tourings also as they will sell in limited quantities.
The B3 is just so much better looking than the new twin lung M Series previews.
That sneak photo seems to temper the twin lung grill somewhat, but it is still just to much a baroque statement compared to paste BMW design before the hyper grilles of the last year or two.
It is necessary decoration that detracts from the design. I hope BMW at least includes a tow hook mount plate holder for the front.
My issue with the 3 grille is the same with the standard 8, namely the slats being replaced by big, thick, ugly plastic bars. The M8 though with its double slats, completely transforms the look of the grille – and indeed the car for the better. Shame they didn’t take the same approach with the 3/M3.
Bravo Nico, I agree perfectly with you. Alpina is the only hope!
Sadly, it makes perfect sens now.
Meanwhile we don’t get the luxury of choice in the US
I’m surprised Alpina chose to use the m sport bumper as they usually stick with the regular front bumper (i.e. F30)
You’ve just said that in the best way Gary Busey’s teeth!!!! Totally agree with you! Alpina this time beats that ugly M3 . OMG the designer is blind or dumb or maybe both. BMW will produce the ugliest M3 ever and that’s for sure . But we will see how the people will react I hope for zero sales, that’s the only way to open the eyes of BMW directors .Fingers crossed . By the way Alpina has always been the better car.