2001 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2001 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Hyundai Elantra (104 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (80 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 246 kg more than 2001 Hyundai Elantra.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Hyundai Elantra. (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Hyundai Elantra. 2001 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Hyundai Elantra | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elantra | 300 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 3005 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1199 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
