1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 16 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 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (231 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 427 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.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2005 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | S |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 3724 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 273 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2860 mm |
