2008 Alpina B3 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2008 Alpina B3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alpina B3 (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alpina B3 weights approximately 715 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alpina B3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Alpina B3 (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alpina B3 | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Alpina | Volkswagen |
| Model | B3 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 810 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 |
