1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1986 Peugeot 205
To start off, 1986 Peugeot 205 is newer by 8 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, 1986 Peugeot 205 (444 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Peugeot 205 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 565 kg more than 1986 Peugeot 205.
Because 1986 Peugeot 205 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Peugeot 205 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, 1986 Peugeot 205 (501 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1986 Peugeot 205 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1986 Peugeot 205 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Peugeot |
| Model | 280 | 205 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1775 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 444 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 501 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 110 L |
