1977 Datsun 280 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Datsun 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Datsun 280 would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 1800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1977 Datsun 280. (125 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1977 Datsun 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 145 kg more than 1977 Datsun 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (311 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Datsun 280. (197 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Datsun 280. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1977 Datsun 280 has manual transmission. 1977 Datsun 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Datsun 280 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Datsun | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | C |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 62 L |
