1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2011 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen T5 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 2,962 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 56 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen T5. (129 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 343 kg more than 2011 Volkswagen T5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2011 Volkswagen T5 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen T5 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 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 168 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 15.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 3410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 80 L |
