2005 Citroen C8 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Citroen C8 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Citroen C8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Citroen C8 (201 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Citroen C8 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen C8 weights approximately 282 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 Citroen C8, 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 Citroen C8 (285 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Citroen C8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen C8 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C8 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1842 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2940 mm |
