1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse

To start off, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (145 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1980 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse has manual transmission. 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse 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 1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse
Make Mercedes-Benz Mitsubishi
Model 280 Eclipse
Year Released 1980 1999
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2746 cc 2350 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 182 HP 145 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 233 Nm 214 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1550 kg 1290 kg
Vehicle Length 4760 mm 4460 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 90 L 62 L