2004 Buick Century vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Buick Century is newer by 28 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 3,134 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Buick Century (176 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick Century weights approximately 56 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.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Buick Century, 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, 2004 Buick Century (264 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2004 Buick Century 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. 2004 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Buick Century | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Century | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3134 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 264 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 79 L |
