2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 310 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | A | 280 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 241 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78.8 mm |
Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1475 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 65 L |