1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP) has 60 more horse power than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. (125 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300, 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, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 (245 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm). This means 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 300 | 280 |
Year Released | 1984 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2998 cc | 2745 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 125 HP | 185 HP |
Torque | 245 Nm | 240 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2940 mm |