1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2009 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2009 Subaru Outback 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Subaru Outback (242 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Subaru Outback 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 115 kg more than 2009 Subaru Outback.
Because 2009 Subaru Outback 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, 2009 Subaru Outback 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Subaru Outback. (215 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Subaru Outback.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2009 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | 280 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 8.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 64 L |
