2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser is newer by 22 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, 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser (200 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser weights approximately 89 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, 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser, 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, 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser (271 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm). This means 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser has manual transmission. 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser 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:
| 2000 Chrysler Panel Cruiser | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panel Cruiser | 280 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1564 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2800 mm |
