2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (231 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 405 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | 300 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2810 mm |
