2004 Alpina B3 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Alpina B3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 600 kg more than 2004 Alpina B3.
Because 2004 Alpina B3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Alpina B3 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | B3 | A |
Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1898 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 301 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 362 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 85.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
Top Speed | 270 km/hour | 193 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.4 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 2050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.1 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |