1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2009 Nissan Armada
To start off, 2009 Nissan Armada 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 5,551 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Armada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Armada (317 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Armada 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 33 kg more than 2009 Nissan Armada.
Because 2009 Nissan Armada 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, 2009 Nissan Armada 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, 2009 Nissan Armada (522 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 281 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Armada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2009 Nissan Armada has automatic transmission and 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Nissan Armada will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2009 Nissan Armada | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | 280 | Armada |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 5551 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 522 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1990 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 106 L |
