1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 24 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 4,171 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 616 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 4171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 2166 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
