2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 369 kg more than 1978 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 SL (470 Nm) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | 280 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
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 | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 470 Nm | 241 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.8 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1844 kg | 1475 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 65 L |