1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Multivan
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Multivan 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Multivan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Multivan (232 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Multivan should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 829 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 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 Multivan, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Multivan (315 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Multivan 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 Volkswagen Multivan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Multivan |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 2304 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
