1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 31 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 21 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 50 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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, 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | C |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
