2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 weights approximately 179 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz E500 (441 Nm) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E500 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 441 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1729 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
