1969 Austin Mini Clubman vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Austin Mini Clubman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Austin Mini Clubman would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1969 Austin Mini Clubman. (39 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1969 Austin Mini Clubman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 837 kg more than 1969 Austin Mini Clubman. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Austin Mini Clubman, 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Austin Mini Clubman. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Austin Mini Clubman.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Austin Mini Clubman | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Mini Clubman | 280 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 119 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 638 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3170 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 65 L |
