2002 Chrysler 300 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Chrysler 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Chrysler 300 would be higher. At 3,523 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (305 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2002 Chrysler 300. (251 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2002 Chrysler 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 102 kg more than 2002 Chrysler 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Chrysler 300, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Chrysler 300. (346 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Chrysler 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chrysler 300 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | CLS |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3523 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 346 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1633 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
