1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1998 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 1998 Mitsubishi Magna is newer by 24 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 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mitsubishi Magna (187 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Magna should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 102 kg more than 1998 Mitsubishi Magna.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Magna, 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Magna (255 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Magna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1998 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 280 | Magna |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1458 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2730 mm |
