1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (218 HP) has 38 more horse power than 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280. (180 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280. (258 Nm). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 420 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 180 HP |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2410 mm |
