1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 34 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 14 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. (168 HP @ 3000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 195 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | E |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.9 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1670 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
