1961 Mini MK I vs. 2008 Alpina B3
To start off, 2008 Alpina B3 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mini MK I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mini MK I would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 267 more horse power than 1961 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alpina B3 weights approximately 837 kg more than 1961 Mini MK I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Alpina B3 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 2008 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Mini MK I, 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, 2008 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2008 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mini MK I. 2008 Alpina B3 has automatic transmission and 1961 Mini MK I has manual transmission. 1961 Mini MK I will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Alpina B3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mini MK I | 2008 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | Mini | Alpina |
| Model | MK I | B3 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 3346 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 362 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 615 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2730 mm |
