2003 Alpina B3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R. (215 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alpina B3. (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | R |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.9 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
