1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 27 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A 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 285 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A 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 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 280 | A |
Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2745 cc | 2034 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 185 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1275 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2570 mm |