1986 Peugeot 309 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Peugeot 309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Peugeot 309 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (536 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 472 more horse power than 1986 Peugeot 309. (64 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1986 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1360 kg more than 1986 Peugeot 309. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Peugeot 309, 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 Mercedes-Benz S (799 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 691 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Peugeot 309. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Peugeot 309. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1986 Peugeot 309 has manual transmission. 1986 Peugeot 309 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Peugeot 309 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Peugeot | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 309 | S |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 536 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 799 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 5250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 3165 mm |
