2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 3,344 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (301 HP) has 121 more horse power than 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280. (180 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (362 Nm) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280. (258 Nm). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3344 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 180 HP |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
