1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 36 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 34 more horse power than 2012 Honda Civic. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 362 kg more than 2012 Honda Civic. 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, 2012 Honda Civic, 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (173 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
| Model | 280 | Civic |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1198 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 50 L |
