2001 Acura NSX vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2001 Acura NSX is newer by 21 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Acura NSX (480 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 295 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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, 2001 Acura NSX (304 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm). This means 2001 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2001 Acura NSX has automatic transmission and 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Acura NSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura NSX | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | NSX | 280 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 480 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2460 mm |
