1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW
To start off, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW would be higher. At 6,328 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW (395 HP @ 5160 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 CW (600 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz CW | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | CW |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 6328 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 395 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5160 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1120 mm |
