2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 20 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (178 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 255 kg more than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (255 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | 300 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 72 L |
