2006 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 26 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP) has 74 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Optra. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 243 kg more than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1980 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Optra, 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, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Optra. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Optra. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2006 Chevrolet Optra has manual transmission. 2006 Chevrolet Optra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Optra | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optra | 280 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1793 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
