1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1988 Peugeot 205
To start off, 1988 Peugeot 205 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1988 Peugeot 205. (102 HP @ 6800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1988 Peugeot 205. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1988 Peugeot 205. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Peugeot 205, 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Peugeot 205. (122 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Peugeot 205.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1988 Peugeot 205 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Peugeot |
| Model | 280 | 205 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 73.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |
