2006 Cadillac STS vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2006 Cadillac STS is newer by 28 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 3,563 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Cadillac STS (253 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Cadillac STS weights approximately 307 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, 2006 Cadillac STS (342 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Cadillac STS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Cadillac STS | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | STS | 280 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3563 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 253 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 342 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.4 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1782 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2960 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 65 L |
