1966 Chevrolet Corvette vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 6,999 cc (8 cylinders), 1966 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Chevrolet Corvette (425 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 240 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 97 kg more than 1966 Chevrolet Corvette.
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. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1966 Chevrolet Corvette has manual transmission. 1966 Chevrolet Corvette will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Chevrolet Corvette | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Corvette | 280 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6999 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 425 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1463 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2940 mm |
