2005 Chrysler Town & Country vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Chrysler Town & Country is newer by 26 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 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chrysler Town & Country is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chrysler Town & Country (215 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chrysler Town & Country should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chrysler Town & Country weights approximately 381 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 2005 Chrysler Town & Country, 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 Town & Country (320 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm). This means 2005 Chrysler Town & Country will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chrysler Town & Country | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Town & Country | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3785 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1941 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2940 mm |
