1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2012 Scion xD
To start off, 2012 Scion xD is newer by 33 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 57 more horse power than 2012 Scion xD. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2012 Scion xD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 369 kg more than 2012 Scion xD. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Scion xD, 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Scion xD. (169 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Scion xD.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2012 Scion xD | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Scion |
| Model | 280 | xD |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 4-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3929 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1725 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1509 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2461 mm |
