2009 Alpina B3 vs. 1978 Honda Accord
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Honda Accord 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 222 more horse power than 1978 Honda Accord. (79 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina B3 weights approximately 690 kg more than 1978 Honda Accord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Honda Accord, 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, 2009 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Honda Accord. (126 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Honda Accord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina B3 | 1978 Honda Accord | |
| Make | Alpina | Honda |
| Model | B3 | Accord |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1602 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
