2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 319 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (174 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 425 kg more than 1976 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 467 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | S | 280 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5439 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 493 HP | 174 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 700 Nm | 233 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 86.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1985 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2830 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 90 L |