1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2004 Porsche Cayenne

To start off, 2004 Porsche Cayenne 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Porsche Cayenne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Porsche Cayenne (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Porsche Cayenne should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2004 Porsche Cayenne.

Because 2004 Porsche Cayenne 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 Porsche Cayenne 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 Porsche Cayenne (321 Nm) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm). This means 2004 Porsche Cayenne will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2004 Porsche Cayenne has manual transmission. 2004 Porsche Cayenne 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 2004 Porsche Cayenne
Make Mercedes-Benz Porsche
Model 280 Cayenne
Year Released 1979 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2745 cc 3196 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 185 HP 247 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 321 Nm
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1560 kg 1405 kg
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2360 mm