2008 Alpina B3 vs. 1979 Lancia Beta
To start off, 2008 Alpina B3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 3,347 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alpina B3 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1979 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Lancia Beta, 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, 2008 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alpina B3 | 1979 Lancia Beta | |
| Make | Alpina | Lancia |
| Model | B3 | Beta |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3347 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 49 L |
