1988 Nissan 300 ZX vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V

To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Nissan 300 ZX (171 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Nissan 300 ZX should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 540 kg more than 1988 Nissan 300 ZX.

Because 1988 Nissan 300 ZX 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 1988 Nissan 300 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz V, 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, 1988 Nissan 300 ZX (234 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. (211 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Nissan 300 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V has automatic transmission and 1988 Nissan 300 ZX has manual transmission. 1988 Nissan 300 ZX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 Nissan 300 ZX 1996 Mercedes-Benz V
Make Nissan Mercedes-Benz
Model 300 ZX V
Year Released 1988 1996
Body Type Coupe Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2960 cc 2295 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 171 HP 139 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 234 Nm 211 Nm
Torque RPM 3600 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1460 kg 2000 kg
Vehicle Length 4550 mm 4670 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1880 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1850 mm
Wheelbase Size 2530 mm 3010 mm