1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2013 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 34 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse (277 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 581 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse, 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, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse (361 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Traverse 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 | 2013 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | 280 | Traverse |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 277 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 2141 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 5173 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1846 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 3020 mm |
