2003 Alpina B3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 5,459 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2003 Alpina B3. (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 2003 Alpina B3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 445 kg more than 2003 Alpina B3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alpina B3. (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 GL | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | GL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 5459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 383 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.9 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.8 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.1 L/100km | 13.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 100 L |
