1996 Lancia Zeta vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1996 Lancia Zeta is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1996 Lancia Zeta. (145 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1996 Lancia Zeta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lancia Zeta weights approximately 105 kg more than 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Lancia Zeta, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (260 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lancia Zeta. (235 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lancia Zeta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lancia Zeta | 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Zeta | 280 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2840 mm |
