1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is newer by 18 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 (113 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. (90 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo weights approximately 55 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 1985 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo, 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, both vehicles can yield 185 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | Vaneo |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
