1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Multivan
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Multivan 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 2,745 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 55 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen Multivan. (130 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen Multivan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 211 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Multivan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Multivan 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 Volkswagen Multivan 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 Volkswagen Multivan (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Multivan 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 2008 Volkswagen Multivan has manual transmission. 2008 Volkswagen Multivan 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Multivan | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Multivan |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 168 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1349 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 3010 mm |
