1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (80 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 290 kg more than 1976 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (351 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | S |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3005 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
