1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Iltis
To start off, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Iltis would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP) has 108 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Volkswagen Iltis is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Iltis 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. (136 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Iltis. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Iltis has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Iltis will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1978 Volkswagen Iltis | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Iltis |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2110 mm |
