1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2012 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC70 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC70 (240 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 406 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, 2012 Volvo XC70, 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, 2012 Volvo XC70 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2012 Volvo XC70 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 Volvo XC70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2012 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 280 | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1881 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4838 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1604 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2815 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
