2001 Alpina B3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 7 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 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alpina B3 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
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, 2008 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 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alpina B3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | A |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 60 L |
