2006 Alpina B3 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2006 Alpina B3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,347 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alpina B3 weights approximately 720 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 2006 Alpina B3 (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2006 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alpina B3 | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Alpina | Volkswagen |
| Model | B3 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3347 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
