1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1974 Mini MK III
To start off, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mini MK III would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1974 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 865 kg more than 1974 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Mini MK III, 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mini MK III. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1974 Mini MK III has manual transmission. 1974 Mini MK III will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1974 Mini MK III | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mini |
Model | 280 | MK III |
Year Released | 1978 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 847 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 182 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 61 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2040 mm |