2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 72 kg more than 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 300 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 5350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 65 L |
