1999 Alpina B3 vs. 1980 BMW M1
To start off, 1999 Alpina B3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alpina B3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1980 BMW M1. (273 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW M1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alpina B3 weights approximately 284 kg more than 1980 BMW M1. 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 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M1. (330 Nm). This means 1999 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW M1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alpina B3 | 1980 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Alpina | BMW |
| Model | B3 | M1 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 455 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Top Speed | 265 km/hour | 262 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
