1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1980 Austin Mini Metro is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 721 kg more than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Austin Mini Metro, 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1980 Austin Mini Metro has manual transmission. 1980 Austin Mini Metro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Austin Mini Metro | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Mini Metro | 280 |
Year Released | 1980 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1257 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 62 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 97 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 1475 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 65 L |