1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1985 Talbot Samba
To start off, 1985 Talbot Samba is newer by 7 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 138 more horse power than 1985 Talbot Samba. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1985 Talbot Samba. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 735 kg more than 1985 Talbot Samba. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Talbot Samba. (65 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Talbot Samba.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1985 Talbot Samba | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Talbot |
| Model | 280 | Samba |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 65 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 62 mm |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2350 mm |
