1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 30 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) has 74 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 360 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | Viano |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 152 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 16.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 75 L |
