2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1974 AMC Matador
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 AMC Matador. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 AMC Matador would be higher. At 5,896 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (277 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1974 AMC Matador. (220 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1974 AMC Matador. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 AMC Matador weights approximately 232 kg more than 2003 Alpina B3.
Because 2003 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 AMC Matador. 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, 1974 AMC Matador (427 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alpina B3. (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1974 AMC Matador | |
| Make | Alpina | AMC |
| Model | B3 | Matador |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 5896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 103.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 87.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1792 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 92 L |
