1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2012 Hyundai Elantra

To start off, 2012 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 32 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 47 more horse power than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 168 kg more than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 2012 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Hyundai Elantra. (184 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Hyundai Elantra.

Compare all specifications:

1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 2012 Hyundai Elantra
Make Mercedes-Benz Hyundai
Model 280 Elantra
Year Released 1980 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2746 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 185 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 184 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4600 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1500 kg 1332 kg
Vehicle Length 4400 mm 4486 mm
Vehicle Width 1800 mm 1765 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1519 mm
Wheelbase Size 2460 mm 2700 mm