2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 102 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (174 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 2003 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3300 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
