2001 Dodge Intrepid vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2001 Dodge Intrepid is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Dodge Intrepid (197 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (174 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Dodge Intrepid should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Dodge Intrepid weights approximately 10 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Dodge Intrepid, 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, 2001 Dodge Intrepid (257 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Dodge Intrepid will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2001 Dodge Intrepid has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Dodge Intrepid will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Dodge Intrepid | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Intrepid | 280 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2736 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2830 mm |
