1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2008 Subaru Impreza

To start off, 2008 Subaru Impreza 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 Impreza (227 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Impreza 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 70 kg more than 2008 Subaru Impreza.

Because 2008 Subaru Impreza 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 Impreza 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 Impreza (320 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Impreza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2008 Subaru Impreza has manual transmission. 2008 Subaru Impreza 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 2008 Subaru Impreza
Make Mercedes-Benz Subaru
Model 280 Impreza
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 227 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 230 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 10.8 seconds 5.9 seconds
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1475 kg 1405 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4470 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2800 mm 2530 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 60 L