1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2013 Ford C-MAX

To start off, 2013 Ford C-MAX 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 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 46 more horse power than 2013 Ford C-MAX. (139 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2013 Ford C-MAX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Ford C-MAX weights approximately 194 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.

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 Ford C-MAX, 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 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Ford C-MAX. (175 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Ford C-MAX.

Compare all specifications:

1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 2013 Ford C-MAX
Make Mercedes-Benz Ford
Model 280 C-MAX
Year Released 1979 2013
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2745 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 185 HP 139 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 175 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 87 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.8 mm 83 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 12.3:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic CVT
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1560 kg 1754 kg
Vehicle Length 5000 mm 4409 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 2085 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1621 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2649 mm