1999 Buick Regal vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1999 Buick Regal is newer by 21 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 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Buick Regal (245 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Buick Regal should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Buick Regal weights approximately 85 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.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Buick Regal, 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, 1999 Buick Regal (380 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Buick Regal will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Buick Regal | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Regal | 280 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 245 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 65 L |
