2008 Alpina B3 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Jetta

To start off, 2008 Alpina B3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volkswagen Jetta 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 248 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alpina B3 weights approximately 660 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 1980 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volkswagen Jetta.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Alpina B3 1980 Volkswagen Jetta
Make Alpina Volkswagen
Model B3 Jetta
Year Released 2008 1980
Body Type Station Wagon Coupe
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 53 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 362 Nm 100 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 2300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87 mm 76.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 93.9 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 23.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Top Speed 266 km/hour 141 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1525 kg 865 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 40 L