2001 Alpina B3 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Alpina B3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Alpina B3 would be higher. At 3,348 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alpina B3 weights approximately 334 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Alpina B3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Alpina B3 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | B3 | A |
Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3348 cc | 1687 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 301 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 362 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1311 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |