1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Routan 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 3,796 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Routan. (197 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Routan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 837 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, 2009 Volkswagen Routan, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Routan (313 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (265 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2009 Volkswagen Routan 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 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2009 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 3796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 313 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 5150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3080 mm |
