1997 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2011 Alpina B3
To start off, 2011 Alpina B3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alpina B3 (355 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 150 kg more than 2011 Alpina B3.
Because 2011 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (531 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Alpina B3. (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 2011 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alpina |
| Model | E | B3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 531 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
