1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 468 kg more than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mercedes-Benz A. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 300 | A |
Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1397 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 231 HP | 80 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 273 Nm | 130 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 69.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 3790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2600 mm |