1988 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 18 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 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1988 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (261 HP) has 81 more horse power than 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280. (180 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 1988 Mercedes-Benz S (405 Nm) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280. (258 Nm). This means 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mercedes-Benz S | 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | 280 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 180 HP |
| Torque | 405 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 86.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2410 mm |
