1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse

To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 27 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 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. (182 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 400 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse, 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 (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Buick LaCrosse. 2012 Buick LaCrosse has automatic transmission and 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 2012 Buick LaCrosse
Make Mercedes-Benz Buick
Model 300 LaCrosse
Year Released 1985 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2962 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 188 HP 182 HP
Engine RPM 5700 RPM 6700 RPM
Torque 260 Nm 233 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 4900 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1340 kg 1740 kg
Vehicle Length 4750 mm 5001 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1857 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1504 mm
Wheelbase Size 2810 mm 2837 mm