2003 Alpina B3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 9 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 2003 Alpina B3. (277 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2003 Alpina B3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 785 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.
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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (699 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 364 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alpina B3. (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alpina B3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | ML |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 277 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 2345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1796 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 105 L |
