1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2003 Panoz AIV
To start off, 2003 Panoz AIV 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 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Panoz AIV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Panoz AIV (301 HP) has 176 more horse power than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. (125 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Panoz AIV should accelerate faster than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2003 Panoz AIV.
Because 2003 Panoz AIV 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 Panoz AIV. 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 Panoz AIV (407 Nm) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. (245 Nm). This means 2003 Panoz AIV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2003 Panoz AIV | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Panoz |
| Model | 300 | AIV |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 4599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 301 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2660 mm |
