2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Datsun 280Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Datsun 280Z would be higher. At 3,344 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (150 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Datsun 280Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 341 kg more than 1978 Datsun 280Z. 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, 2003 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Datsun 280Z. (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Datsun 280Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Alpina | Datsun |
| Model | B3 | 280Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3344 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
