1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2003 Nissan Terrano II
To start off, 2003 Nissan Terrano II is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Terrano II (116 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Terrano II should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Terrano II weights approximately 181 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Nissan Terrano II is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Terrano II 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, 2003 Nissan Terrano II (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Terrano II will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2003 Nissan Terrano II | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | 300 | Terrano II |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1626 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2660 mm |
