2004 Alpina B3 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Alpina B3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (218 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alpina B3 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Alpina B3 (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S. (306 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alpina B3 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 3818 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 71.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2950 mm |
