1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 28 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 330 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.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | S |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 3040 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 90 L |
