1991 Chrysler Viper vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1991 Chrysler Viper is newer by 11 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 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1991 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 90 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1991 Chrysler Viper (621 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 381 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1991 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Chrysler Viper | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Viper | 280 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 621 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2460 mm |
