2007 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 31 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (174 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 144 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2007 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C | 280 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1704 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 90 L |
