1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1986 Peugeot 309
To start off, 1986 Peugeot 309 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1986 Peugeot 309. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1986 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 735 kg more than 1986 Peugeot 309. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Peugeot 309, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Peugeot 309. (130 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Peugeot 309.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1986 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Peugeot |
| Model | 280 | 309 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 70 L |
