2004 Citroen C5 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Citroen C5 is newer by 26 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 @ 5800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2004 Citroen C5. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2004 Citroen C5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Citroen C5 weights approximately 42 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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, 2004 Citroen C5, 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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2004 Citroen C5 has manual transmission. 2004 Citroen C5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Citroen C5 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C5 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.1 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1517 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 65 L |
