2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C 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 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 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 140 kg more than 1980 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | 280 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |
