2006 Dodge Dakota vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2006 Dodge Dakota is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Dakota (211 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 286 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Dakota will offer significantly more control. 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 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Dakota | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Dakota | 280 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3700 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 319 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 79 L |
