1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2002 Porsche 996
To start off, 2002 Porsche 996 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Porsche 996 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Porsche 996 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, 2002 Porsche 996 (371 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2002 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2002 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | 300 | 996 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2360 mm |
