2009 Alpina B3 vs. 1984 Lotus Etna
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Lotus Etna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Lotus Etna would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1984 Lotus Etna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Lotus Etna (331 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2009 Alpina B3. (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Lotus Etna should accelerate faster than 2009 Alpina B3.
Because 2009 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1984 Lotus Etna. 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, 1984 Lotus Etna (408 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Alpina B3. (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1984 Lotus Etna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina B3 | 1984 Lotus Etna | |
| Make | Alpina | Lotus |
| Model | B3 | Etna |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 331 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 408 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 254 km/hour | 290 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
