1999 Alpina B3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Alpina B3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Alpina B3 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Alpina B3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (302 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 280 kg more than 1999 Alpina B3.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Alpina B3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Alpina B3. (455 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Alpina B3. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1999 Alpina B3 has manual transmission. 1999 Alpina B3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Alpina B3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | S |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 455 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Top Speed | 265 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 88 L |
