1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1983 Peugeot 305
To start off, 1983 Peugeot 305 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1983 Peugeot 305. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1983 Peugeot 305. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 590 kg more than 1983 Peugeot 305. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Peugeot 305, 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Peugeot 305. (131 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1983 Peugeot 305 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Peugeot |
| Model | 280 | 305 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 1578 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2630 mm |
