1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (383 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 657 kg more than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. (275 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | S |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 383 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 5.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1986 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 90 L |
