1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. (120 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 75 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz E (270 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | E |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2193 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 65 L |
