2003 Infiniti G35 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 Infiniti G35 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Infiniti G35 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Infiniti G35 (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Infiniti G35 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2003 Infiniti G35.
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 Infiniti G35, 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 Infiniti G35 (352 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Infiniti G35 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Infiniti G35 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Infiniti | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | G35 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 352 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2830 mm |
