1978 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 2010 Alpina B7
To start off, 2010 Alpina B7 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,397 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Alpina B7 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 450 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Alpina B7 weights approximately 1170 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 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 2010 Alpina B7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2010 Alpina B7 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 614 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | 2010 Alpina B7 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Alpina |
| Model | Beetle | B7 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 4397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3140 mm |
