1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Alpina D3
To start off, 2011 Alpina D3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Alpina D3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alpina D3 (211 HP) has 54 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alpina D3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 50 kg more than 2011 Alpina D3.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Alpina D3 (450 Nm) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm). This means 2011 Alpina D3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Alpina D3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alpina |
| Model | S | D3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 211 HP |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2730 mm |
