2002 Dodge Stratus vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2002 Dodge Stratus is newer by 13 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 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2002 Dodge Stratus. (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2002 Dodge Stratus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 108 kg more than 2002 Dodge Stratus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Dodge Stratus, 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Dodge Stratus. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Dodge Stratus. 2002 Dodge Stratus 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. 2002 Dodge Stratus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Dodge Stratus | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Stratus | 300 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2810 mm |
