1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (138 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (109 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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 3 kg more than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze.
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 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (200 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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 | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | 300 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1407 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 59 L |
