1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2011 Dodge Ram
To start off, 2011 Dodge Ram is newer by 33 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 4,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Ram (310 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Ram weights approximately 833 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.
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, 2011 Dodge Ram (447 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 206 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2011 Dodge Ram 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. 2011 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2011 Dodge Ram | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | 280 | Ram |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 4700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 310 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5650 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 2308 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5817 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2017 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1877 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3569 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 98 L |
