2007 Dodge Ram vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2007 Dodge Ram is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 5,653 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Dodge Ram (345 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 163 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1193 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Ram will offer significantly more control. 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, 2007 Dodge Ram (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Dodge Ram | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ram | 280 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5653 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2668 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6350 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 65 L |
