2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1978 BMW 520
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 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 141 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 520 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2003 Alpina B3.
Because 2003 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW 520. 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 520. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alpina B3 | 1978 BMW 520 | |
Make | Alpina | BMW |
Model | B3 | 520 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3300 cc | 1951 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 276 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 335 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
Top Speed | 254 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1670 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.6 L/100km | 6.1 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |