1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2012 Lincoln MKZ
To start off, 2012 Lincoln MKZ is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lincoln MKZ (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. (195 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lincoln MKZ should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 123 kg more than 2012 Lincoln MKZ.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Lincoln MKZ, 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 (358 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Lincoln MKZ. (337 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Lincoln MKZ.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2012 Lincoln MKZ | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lincoln |
| Model | 300 | MKZ |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4519 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 358 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1632 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1445 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2728 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 66 L |
