2003 Alpina B3 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alpina B3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alpina B3 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (302 HP) has 34 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz R. (268 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 725 kg more than 2003 Alpina B3.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Alpina B3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mercedes-Benz R. (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mercedes-Benz R.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | R |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 2205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 80 L |
