1999 Alpina B3 vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 1999 Alpina B3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Saab 900 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 228 more horse power than 1979 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alpina B3 weights approximately 500 kg more than 1979 Saab 900. 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, 1979 Saab 900, 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 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Saab 900. (162 Nm). This means 1999 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alpina B3 | 1979 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Alpina | Saab |
| Model | B3 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 455 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Top Speed | 265 km/hour | 164 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
