1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2009 Opel Vivaro
To start off, 2009 Opel Vivaro is newer by 29 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 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2009 Opel Vivaro. (101 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2009 Opel Vivaro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Opel Vivaro weights approximately 113 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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, 2009 Opel Vivaro, 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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2009 Opel Vivaro | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Vivaro |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 3100 mm |
