2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 321 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | 280 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 79 L |
