1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Impala 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 110 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 2012 Chevrolet Impala, 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 Impala (355 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Impala 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 Impala | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | 300 | Impala |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1491 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2807 mm |
