1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2006 Renault Clio
To start off, 2006 Renault Clio 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, 2006 Renault Clio (194 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Renault Clio 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 140 kg more than 2006 Renault Clio.
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 Renault Clio, 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 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Renault Clio. (215 Nm @ 5550 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Renault Clio. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2006 Renault Clio has manual transmission. 2006 Renault Clio will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2006 Renault Clio | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 280 | Clio |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 194 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7250 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5550 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
