2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (277 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 157 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220. (120 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Alpina B3 (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220. (189 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1961 Mercedes-Benz 220 | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | 220 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 13.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
