1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1989 Suzuki Jimny
To start off, 1989 Suzuki Jimny is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Jimny. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Jimny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 870 kg more than 1989 Suzuki Jimny. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Suzuki Jimny is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Suzuki Jimny will offer significantly more control. 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Jimny. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Jimny. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1989 Suzuki Jimny has manual transmission. 1989 Suzuki Jimny will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1989 Suzuki Jimny | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | 280 | Jimny |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 537 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 3200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2040 mm |
