2006 Alpina B3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Alpina B3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Alpina B3 would be higher. At 3,347 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (156 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B.
Because 2006 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 2006 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2006 Alpina B3 (363 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B. (250 Nm @ 1250 RPM). This means 2006 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alpina B3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | B |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3347 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 363 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 266 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.8 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4359 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1557 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2699 mm |
