1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 23 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (113 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | A |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 184 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
