1999 Alpina B3 vs. 1978 Lancia Gamma
To start off, 1999 Alpina B3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lancia Gamma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lancia Gamma 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 212 more horse power than 1978 Lancia Gamma. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Lancia Gamma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alpina B3 weights approximately 374 kg more than 1978 Lancia Gamma. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Lancia Gamma, 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, 1999 Alpina B3 (455 Nm) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Lancia Gamma. (175 Nm). This means 1999 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Lancia Gamma. 1978 Lancia Gamma has automatic transmission and 1999 Alpina B3 has manual transmission. 1999 Alpina B3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Lancia Gamma will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alpina B3 | 1978 Lancia Gamma | |
| Make | Alpina | Lancia |
| Model | B3 | Gamma |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 455 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 59 L |
