2009 Alpina B3 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Alpina B3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alpina B3 weights approximately 380 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 2009 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 2009 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2009 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2009 Alpina B3 has manual transmission. 2009 Alpina B3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Alpina B3 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B3 | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3346 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 362 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.8 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.1 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
