1955 Abarth 208 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Abarth 208. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Abarth 208 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1955 Abarth 208. (65 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1955 Abarth 208. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 690 kg more than 1955 Abarth 208. 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. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1955 Abarth 208 has manual transmission. 1955 Abarth 208 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Abarth 208 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Abarth | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 208 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1088 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 65 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2060 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 90 L |
