2004 Fiat Panda vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Fiat Panda is newer by 24 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Panda. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 400 kg more than 2004 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Fiat Panda is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Panda will offer significantly more control. 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Fiat Panda. (98 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Panda | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2460 mm |
