1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 22 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 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. (167 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 630 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | ML |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 2685 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 2175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2830 mm |
