2003 Alpina B3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 5 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 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (277 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS. (221 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 255 kg more than 2003 Alpina B3.
Because 2003 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alpina B3. (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.7 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
