1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2003 Pontiac Aztek
To start off, 2003 Pontiac Aztek 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 3,392 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Pontiac Aztek is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Pontiac Aztek (176 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Pontiac Aztek should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Pontiac Aztek weights approximately 200 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 Pontiac Aztek 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 Pontiac Aztek 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 Pontiac Aztek (298 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Pontiac Aztek will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2003 Pontiac Aztek has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Pontiac Aztek will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2003 Pontiac Aztek | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | 300 | Aztek |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 69 L |
