2006 Chrysler 300 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2006 Chrysler 300 is newer by 27 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 6,064 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler 300 (425 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 240 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 273 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler 300, 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, 2006 Chrysler 300 (570 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler 300 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 300 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6064 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 425 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 265 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1833 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3050 mm | 2940 mm |
