2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1989 Saab 900
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 900 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 116 more horse power than 1989 Saab 900. (185 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 355 kg more than 1989 Saab 900. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Alpina B3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Saab 900, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Saab 900. (273 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1989 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Alpina | Saab |
| Model | B3 | 900 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3344 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
