1985 Fiat Panda vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1985 Fiat Panda is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1985 Fiat Panda. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1985 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 685 kg more than 1985 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Fiat Panda 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Fiat Panda | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | 280 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 999 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64.9 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 65 L |
