1978 Daihatsu Taft vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1978 Daihatsu Taft is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. (62 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Daihatsu Taft is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Daihatsu Taft will offer significantly more control. 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. (150 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Daihatsu Taft.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Daihatsu Taft | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taft | 280 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1973 |
| Engine Size | 2530 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2410 mm |
