2004 Alpina B3 vs. 1991 Volvo 480
To start off, 2004 Alpina B3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Volvo 480 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 192 more horse power than 1991 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1991 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alpina B3 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1991 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Volvo 480, 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, 2004 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2004 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alpina B3 | 1991 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Alpina | Volvo |
| Model | B3 | 480 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
