Here's a rather unusual comparison test between the new generation 2014 BMW M3 and the Alpina D3 Diesel, which is also based on the 3 Series Bimmer. This test is a bit unfair from Alpina's point of you. The new BMW M3 (2014) is powered by a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged petrol engine that develops 425 hp between 5,500 rpm and 7,300 rpm and 406 lb-ft of torque between 1,800 rpm and 5,500 rpm. The Alpina D3 has a diesel engine with the same capacities that outputs 345 bhp at 4,000 rpm and 516 lb-ft of torque between 1,500 rpm and 3,000 rpm. The 2014 M3 Bimmer comes with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, while the Alpina is equipped with an 8-speed automatic gearbox. In terms of performance, the 2014 M3 needs 4.1 seconds to get to 60 mph, while the D3 requires 4.6 seconds to reach the same speed. However, the M3 is limited to a 155 mph top sped, while the Alpina can reach 173 mph.
In terms of price, the 2014 BMW M3 is going to cost you 56,175 GBP, while the Alpina D3 is priced at 46,950 GBP.