1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1992 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 1992 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 13 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 117 more horse power than 1992 Suzuki Samurai. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1992 Suzuki Samurai. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 630 kg more than 1992 Suzuki Samurai. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Suzuki Samurai 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Suzuki Samurai. (103 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Suzuki Samurai. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1992 Suzuki Samurai has manual transmission. 1992 Suzuki Samurai will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1992 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | 280 | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2490 mm |
