1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 80 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | S |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 85 L |
