1999 Alpina B3 vs. 1971 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1999 Alpina B3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alpina B3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1971 Lotus Elan. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1971 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alpina B3 weights approximately 1000 kg more than 1971 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alpina B3 | 1971 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Alpina | Lotus |
| Model | B3 | Elan |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1170 mm |
