1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2008 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2008 Toyota Matrix is newer by 19 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 105 more horse power than 2008 Toyota Matrix. (126 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2008 Toyota Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 1091 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
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, 2008 Toyota Matrix, 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 108 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Toyota Matrix. (165 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Toyota Matrix. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2008 Toyota Matrix has manual transmission. 2008 Toyota Matrix will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2008 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | 300 | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 273 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 2581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2610 mm |
