2005 Alpina B3 vs. 1979 Mini MK IV
To start off, 2005 Alpina B3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 267 more horse power than 1979 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alpina B3 weights approximately 1340 kg more than 1979 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Mini MK IV, 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, 2005 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2005 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alpina B3 | 1979 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Alpina | Mini |
| Model | B3 | MK IV |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2040 mm |
