1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 17 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 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (178 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (167 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 190 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (255 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz E has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | E |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 70 L |
