2009 Alpina B3 vs. 1968 Lotus Elan
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Elan. (104 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Elan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina B3 weights approximately 1020 kg more than 1968 Lotus Elan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina B3 | 1968 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Alpina | Lotus |
| Model | B3 | Elan |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1968 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
