2005 Honda Odyssey vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Honda Odyssey is newer by 25 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 3,474 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Honda Odyssey is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Honda Odyssey (255 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Honda Odyssey should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Honda Odyssey weights approximately 602 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Honda Odyssey, 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 Honda Odyssey (339 Nm) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm). This means 2005 Honda Odyssey will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2005 Honda Odyssey has automatic transmission and 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Honda Odyssey will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Honda Odyssey | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Honda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Odyssey | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3474 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 339 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2102 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2460 mm |
