2009 Alpina B3 vs. 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alpina B3 (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. (231 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 130 kg more than 2009 Alpina B3.
Because 2009 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Alpina B3 (335 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. (268 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina B3 | 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | SL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3301 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 268 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 80 L |
