2004 McLaren F1 vs. 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2004 McLaren F1 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 6,063 cc (12 cylinders), 2004 McLaren F1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 McLaren F1 (619 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 461 more horse power than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. (158 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 McLaren F1 should accelerate faster than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 760 kg more than 2004 McLaren F1.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 McLaren F1 | 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | McLaren | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F1 | 300 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 6063 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 619 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 3160 mm |
