2004 Alpina B3 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Alpina B3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 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 163 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alpina B3 weights approximately 480 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 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 (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alpina B3 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | A |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 2084 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
