2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP) has 368 more horse power than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. (125 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 725 kg more than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm) has 556 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. (245 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | 300 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 125 HP |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 92.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2800 mm |
