1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 433 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 238 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (781 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 521 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has automatic transmission and 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 618 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 781 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 207 km/hour | 334 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 3.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1768 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.9 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15 L/100km | 20.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.3 L/100km | 14.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 98 L |
