1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1996 Proton 400
To start off, 1996 Proton 400 is newer by 20 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 @ 6000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1996 Proton 400. 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, 1996 Proton 400, 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 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (126 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1996 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Proton |
| Model | 280 | 400 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2510 mm |
