1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2004 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2004 Panoz Esperante is newer by 20 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 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Panoz Esperante (420 HP) has 295 more horse power than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. (125 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 125 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 2004 Panoz Esperante 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 2004 Panoz Esperante. 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, 2004 Panoz Esperante (529 Nm) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. (245 Nm). This means 2004 Panoz Esperante 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 | 2004 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Panoz |
| Model | 300 | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 4589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 529 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2700 mm |
