2009 Alpina B3 vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alpina B3 (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina B3 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Alpina B3 (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina B3 | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Alpina | Volvo |
| Model | B3 | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
