2003 Alpina B3 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 8 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 2003 Alpina B3. (276 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Alpina B3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 292 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 2003 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz E (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 364 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alpina B3. (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | E |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3300 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4887 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1443 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
