2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1969 Volvo 120
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 3,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (276 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1969 Volvo 120. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1969 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1969 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1969 Volvo 120. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Alpina B3 (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Volvo 120. (158 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1969 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Alpina | Volvo |
| Model | B3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3300 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
