2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 22 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 395 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | 280 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2460 mm |
