2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2011 Alpina B3
To start off, 2011 Alpina B3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 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, 2011 Alpina B3 (355 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (182 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alpina B3 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Alpina B3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 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 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (250 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 2011 Alpina B3 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Alpina B3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 2011 Alpina B3 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Alpina |
| Model | C | B3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 3000 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 355 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2730 mm |
