1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP) has 150 more horse power than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. (125 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 465 kg more than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. (245 Nm). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | S |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 275 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3090 mm |
