1978 Holden Sunbird vs. 2010 Alpina B3
To start off, 2010 Alpina B3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Holden Sunbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Holden Sunbird would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Alpina B3 (355 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 259 more horse power than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (96 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Alpina B3 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1978 Holden Sunbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Holden Sunbird. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 2010 Alpina B3 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 343 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2010 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Holden Sunbird. 2010 Alpina B3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Holden Sunbird has manual transmission. 1978 Holden Sunbird will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Alpina B3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Holden Sunbird | 2010 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | Holden | Alpina |
| Model | Sunbird | B3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2730 mm |
