1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta 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 @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. (170 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Jetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 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, both vehicles can yield 241 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| 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 | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1350 kg |
| 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 |
