1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 29 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 32 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta.
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, 2007 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta. (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2007 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
