1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1992 Plymouth Laser

To start off, 1992 Plymouth Laser is newer by 14 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 91 more horse power than 1992 Plymouth Laser. (91 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1992 Plymouth Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1992 Plymouth Laser. 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, 1992 Plymouth Laser, 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 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Plymouth Laser. (142 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Plymouth Laser.

Compare all specifications:

1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 1992 Plymouth Laser
Make Mercedes-Benz Plymouth
Model 280 Laser
Year Released 1978 1992
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2746 cc 1755 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 182 HP 91 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 241 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3500 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Vehicle Weight 1475 kg 1150 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2480 mm