2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 (195 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 30 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300.
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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 (358 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | 300 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 358 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.1 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 82 L |
