1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 16 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 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | 280 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2460 mm |
