2003 Lincoln Continental vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2003 Lincoln Continental is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lincoln Continental (217 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (80 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lincoln Continental should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 305 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Lincoln Continental, 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 Lincoln Continental (372 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2003 Lincoln Continental has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lincoln Continental will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lincoln Continental | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Lincoln | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Continental | 300 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4601 cc | 3005 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 372 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 92.4 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 | 1750 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5250 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 65 L |
