2003 Alpina B3 vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500
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 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (276 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. (245 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 106 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 500. 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 (399 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alpina B3. (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3300 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 245 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 399 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 254 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
