1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 28 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 101 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | A |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 15 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 54 L |
