2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 27 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 2 more horse power than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (180 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 89 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, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser (285 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm). This means 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | PT Cruiser | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1564 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 65 L |
