2003 Alpina B7 vs. 1998 Holden Nova
To start off, 2003 Alpina B7 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Holden Nova would be higher. At 4,399 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B7 (492 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 387 more horse power than 1998 Holden Nova. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1998 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B7 weights approximately 900 kg more than 1998 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Alpina B7 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 B7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Holden Nova, 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 B7 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 565 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Holden Nova. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Holden Nova. 2003 Alpina B7 has automatic transmission and 1998 Holden Nova has manual transmission. 1998 Holden Nova will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alpina B7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B7 | 1998 Holden Nova | |
| Make | Alpina | Holden |
| Model | B7 | Nova |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4399 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 492 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1990 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2470 mm |
