1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1977 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 1977 Plymouth Horizon is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (174 HP) has 99 more horse power than 1977 Plymouth Horizon. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1977 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1977 Plymouth Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Plymouth Horizon, 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Plymouth Horizon. (122 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1977 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Plymouth |
| Model | 280 | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2530 mm |
