2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,221 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 395 kg more than 1989 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (500 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | 300 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3221 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 88.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1885 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2810 mm |
