2003 Alpina B3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (429 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2003 Alpina B3. (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Alpina B3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 205 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Alpina B3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (699 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 337 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alpina B3. (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 429 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2000 kg | 2205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 90 L |
