1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2003 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2003 Subaru Impreza is newer by 25 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, 2003 Subaru Impreza (246 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru Impreza 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 95 kg more than 2003 Subaru Impreza.
Because 2003 Subaru Impreza 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, 2003 Subaru Impreza 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, 2003 Subaru Impreza (333 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Subaru Impreza 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 | 2003 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | 280 | Impreza |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 246 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 333 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
