1993 Mercedes-Benz G vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1993 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 13 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1993 Mercedes-Benz G. (125 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1993 Mercedes-Benz G. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 330 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1993 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz G 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. Let's talk about torque, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mercedes-Benz G. (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mercedes-Benz G. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1993 Mercedes-Benz G has manual transmission. 1993 Mercedes-Benz G will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mercedes-Benz G | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G | 280 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1880 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2830 mm |
