2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2011 Alpina B3
To start off, 2011 Alpina B3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (517 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2011 Alpina B3. (355 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2011 Alpina B3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alpina B3 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2011 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Alpina B3 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2011 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alpina |
| Model | C | B3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 517 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
