1990 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Alpina B3
To start off, 2008 Alpina B3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 323 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 245 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alpina B3 weights approximately 640 kg more than 1990 Mazda 323. 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, 1990 Mazda 323, 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 (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323. 2008 Alpina B3 has automatic transmission and 1990 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1990 Mazda 323 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:
| 1990 Mazda 323 | 2008 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Alpina |
| Model | 323 | B3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 3346 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 301 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 363 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2730 mm |
