1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2008 Subaru Forester
To start off, 2008 Subaru Forester 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, 2008 Subaru Forester (228 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Forester should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Subaru Forester weights approximately 10 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 2008 Subaru Forester 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, 2008 Subaru Forester 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, 2008 Subaru Forester (320 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Forester 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 Subaru Forester | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | 280 | Forester |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 221 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
