2004 Dodge Stratus vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Dodge Stratus is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2004 Dodge Stratus. (147 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2004 Dodge Stratus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 174 kg more than 2004 Dodge Stratus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Stratus, 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Dodge Stratus. (214 Nm). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Dodge Stratus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Stratus | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Stratus | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2343 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 147 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2940 mm |
