2003 Chrysler Pacifica vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 Chrysler Pacifica is newer by 23 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 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Chrysler Pacifica is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chrysler Pacifica (254 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler Pacifica should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler Pacifica weights approximately 474 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.
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, 2003 Chrysler Pacifica, 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, 2003 Chrysler Pacifica (339 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler Pacifica will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chrysler Pacifica | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Pacifica | 280 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2024 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 90 L |
