1996 Chevrolet Lumina vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Lumina is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina (200 HP) has 113 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Lumina weights approximately 85 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina, 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, 1996 Chevrolet Lumina (311 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Chevrolet Lumina will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chevrolet Lumina | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Lumina | 300 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 87 HP |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2800 mm |
