1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 26 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 27 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (161 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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 | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | 300 | Cruze |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2685 mm |
