1999 Alpina B3 vs. 1978 Datsun 260Z
To start off, 1999 Alpina B3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 260Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 260Z 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 165 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 260Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alpina B3 weights approximately 500 kg more than 1978 Datsun 260Z. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Alpina B3 (455 Nm) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 260Z. (213 Nm). This means 1999 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 260Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alpina B3 | 1978 Datsun 260Z | |
| Make | Alpina | Datsun |
| Model | B3 | 260Z |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 455 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Top Speed | 265 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2581 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
