1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (231 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 497 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 427 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 300 | S |
Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2962 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 231 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 273 Nm | 700 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1985 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 5050 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2970 mm |