1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2008 Opel Frontera
To start off, 2008 Opel Frontera is newer by 29 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 2,996 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Frontera (118 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Frontera should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Frontera weights approximately 196 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Opel Frontera 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, 2008 Opel Frontera 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, 2008 Opel Frontera (280 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Frontera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2008 Opel Frontera | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 300 | Frontera |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1826 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
