2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1980 Alpine A 310
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Alpine A 310. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Alpine A 310 would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (277 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1980 Alpine A 310. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Alpine A 310. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 580 kg more than 1980 Alpine A 310. 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 1980 Alpine A 310. 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 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Alpine A 310. (203 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Alpine A 310.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1980 Alpine A 310 | |
| Make | Alpina | Alpine |
| Model | B3 | A 310 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1160 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 38 L |
