2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2003 Alpina B3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 92 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2003 Alpina B3.
Because 2003 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 72 L |
