1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2004 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2004 Opel Zafira is newer by 28 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, 2004 Opel Zafira (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Zafira should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2004 Opel Zafira.
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, 2004 Opel Zafira, 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, 2004 Opel Zafira (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Zafira will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2004 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 58 L |
