1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2012 Kia Forte
To start off, 2012 Kia Forte 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 18 more horse power than 2012 Kia Forte. (156 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2012 Kia Forte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 319 kg more than 2012 Kia Forte. 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 Kia Forte, 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 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Kia Forte. (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Kia Forte.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2012 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
| Model | 280 | Forte |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1241 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4481 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 52 L |
