1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 25 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 10 more horse power than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C. (168 HP @ 3000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (255 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | C |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 66 L |
