2006 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B 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 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 198 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Mercedes-Benz B, 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 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz B.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz B | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | B | 280 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.2 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2460 mm |
