2005 Alpina B3 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2005 Alpina B3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz V would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 550 kg more than 2005 Alpina B3.
Because 2005 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 2005 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz V, 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, 2005 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz V.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alpina B3 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | V |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3010 mm |
