1997 Honda S-MX vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1997 Honda S-MX is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Honda S-MX. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1997 Honda S-MX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1997 Honda S-MX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Honda S-MX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Honda S-MX 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda S-MX. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Honda S-MX. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1997 Honda S-MX has manual transmission. 1997 Honda S-MX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Honda S-MX | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | S-MX | 280 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1475 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2800 mm |