1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2012 Ford Fusion
To start off, 2012 Ford Fusion is newer by 36 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 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Fusion (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (80 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Fusion should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Fusion weights approximately 45 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.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Fusion, 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, 2012 Ford Fusion (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Fusion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2012 Ford Fusion | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | 300 | Fusion |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3005 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1445 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2728 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 66 L |
