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 2,987 cc, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (174 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 225 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.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (511 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 2987 cc | 2746 cc |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 511 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.5 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
