1970 Datsun 1200 vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Datsun 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Datsun 1200 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1970 Datsun 1200. (69 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1970 Datsun 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 835 kg more than 1970 Datsun 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1970 Datsun 1200. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Datsun 1200. (95 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Datsun 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Datsun 1200 | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1200 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1171 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.1 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 39 L | 72 L |
