2004 Alpina B3 vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 2004 Alpina B3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (326 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2004 Alpina B3. (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 2004 Alpina B3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 562 kg more than 2004 Alpina B3. 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 (480 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Alpina B3. (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Alpina B3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alpina B3 | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | 500 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 326 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 270 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.4 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 2012 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3050 mm |
