2003 Ford C-MAX vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2003 Ford C-MAX is newer by 17 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 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2003 Ford C-MAX. (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford C-MAX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 198 kg more than 2003 Ford C-MAX. 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, 2003 Ford C-MAX, 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, 2003 Ford C-MAX (344 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2003 Ford C-MAX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford C-MAX | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C-MAX | 300 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 72 L |
