1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 20 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (265 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | C |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| 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 | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2770 mm |
