1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2010 Fiat Croma
To start off, 2010 Fiat Croma is newer by 31 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, 2010 Fiat Croma (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Fiat Croma should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Fiat Croma weights approximately 280 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 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Fiat Croma, 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, 2010 Fiat Croma (401 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2010 Fiat Croma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2010 Fiat Croma 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. 2010 Fiat Croma will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2010 Fiat Croma | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Fiat |
| Model | 300 | Croma |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2387 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
