2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 480 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (131 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A | 280 |
Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1397 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 80 HP | 185 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 131 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2460 mm |