1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 31 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Phaeton (237 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 683 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 2011 Volkswagen Phaeton is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Volkswagen Phaeton (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 2233 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 5059 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1903 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1901 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2881 mm |
