2004 Alpina B3 vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 2004 Alpina B3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1979 Datsun 280. (140 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alpina B3 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1979 Datsun 280. 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, 2004 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Datsun 280. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Datsun 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alpina B3 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Alpina | Datsun |
| Model | B3 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 80 L |
