2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP) has 33 more horse power than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. (125 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 255 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300, 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, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 (245 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm). This means 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 300 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 125 HP |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 92.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2800 mm |
