2005 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Sonata 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 9 more horse power than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 181 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 Hyundai Sonata, 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 Hyundai Sonata (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Sonata | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2654 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
