2001 Alpina B3 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 8 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. (268 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Alpina B3 weights approximately 500 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 Alpina B3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2001 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Alpina B3 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | R |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3348 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
