1961 Austin 7 vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin 7 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1961 Austin 7. (33 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 854 kg more than 1961 Austin 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin 7. (60 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin 7 | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 7 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 79 L |
