1958 Maserati 300 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Maserati 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Maserati 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Maserati 300 (243 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. (175 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 Maserati 300 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1210 kg more than 1958 Maserati 300.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1958 Maserati 300 has manual transmission. 1958 Maserati 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Maserati 300 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | S |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2992 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 243 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 990 mm | 1490 mm |
