2006 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1979 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 S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S | 280 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2940 mm |
