1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1979 Pontiac Trans Am
To start off, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Trans Am would be higher. At 6,555 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (220 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. 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, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (434 Nm) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm). This means 1979 Pontiac Trans Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1979 Pontiac Trans Am | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | 300 | Trans Am |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 6555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 220 HP |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2750 mm |
