2001 Alpina B3 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2001 Alpina B3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alpina B3 (296 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alpina B3 weights approximately 635 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 2001 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alpina B3 | 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Alpina | Volkswagen |
| Model | B3 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1713 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
