1997 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 235 kg more than 1978 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (531 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | E | 280 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 349 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 531 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.7 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1475 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |