2009 Mercedes-Benz R vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 30 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 2,997 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (210 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 205 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz R.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 368 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R | 300 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2985 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3220 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |
