1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1980 Renault 14
To start off, 1980 Renault 14 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 112 more horse power than 1980 Renault 14. (70 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1980 Renault 14. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 585 kg more than 1980 Renault 14. 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, 1980 Renault 14, 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 (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Renault 14. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Renault 14.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1980 Renault 14 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 280 | 14 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
