2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 would be higher. At 3,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (276 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. (108 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. 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 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. (187 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | 230.4 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3300 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 254 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 13.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
