1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 21 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 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 85 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1987 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 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | A |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 94 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
