2003 Alpina B3 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Alpina B3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Alpina B3 would be higher. At 3,346 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alpina B3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alpina B3 (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alpina B3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alpina B3 weights approximately 725 kg more than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Alpina B3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2003 Alpina B3 (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Alpina B3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alpina B3 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Alpina | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | B3 | A |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3346 cc | 2034 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 301 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 362 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.4 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.9 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |