1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2005 Toyota Tacoma
To start off, 2005 Toyota Tacoma is newer by 27 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 3,950 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Toyota Tacoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Toyota Tacoma (245 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Tacoma should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota Tacoma weights approximately 321 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Toyota Tacoma 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, 2005 Toyota Tacoma 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, 2005 Toyota Tacoma (382 Nm) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm). This means 2005 Toyota Tacoma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2005 Toyota Tacoma has automatic transmission and 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Toyota Tacoma will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2005 Toyota Tacoma | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | 280 | Tacoma |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 245 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 382 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1796 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3250 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 79 L |
