1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2004 Pontiac Aztek
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Aztek is newer by 25 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 3,392 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac Aztek is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2004 Pontiac Aztek. (176 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2004 Pontiac Aztek. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Pontiac Aztek weights approximately 270 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 2004 Pontiac Aztek 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, 2004 Pontiac Aztek 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, 2004 Pontiac Aztek (298 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Pontiac Aztek will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2004 Pontiac Aztek | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | 280 | Aztek |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 3392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2760 mm |
