2005 Kia Sportage vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Kia Sportage 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 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2005 Kia Sportage. (126 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Sportage. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 18 kg more than 2005 Kia Sportage. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Kia Sportage is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Sportage will offer significantly more control. 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Sportage. (175 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Sportage. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2005 Kia Sportage has manual transmission. 2005 Kia Sportage will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Sportage | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sportage | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1542 kg | 1560 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2940 mm |
