1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2008 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 29 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 2,768 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Dodge Nitro. (175 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Dodge Nitro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 300 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 2008 Dodge Nitro 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro 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 | 2008 Dodge Nitro | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | 280 | Nitro |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 2768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| 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 | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2770 mm |
