2002 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2002 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (178 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. (137 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 335 kg more than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (255 Nm) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. (183 Nm). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Hyundai Elantra. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2002 Hyundai Elantra has manual transmission. 2002 Hyundai Elantra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Hyundai Elantra | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Elantra | 300 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2810 mm |
