2003 Ford Fiesta vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 Ford Fiesta is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP) has 115 more horse power than 2003 Ford Fiesta. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 355 kg more than 2003 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Fiesta. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Fiesta | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Fiesta | 280 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1295 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 67 HP | 182 HP |
Torque | 108 Nm | 241 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1475 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 65 L |