2008 Citroen C8 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2008 Citroen C8 is newer by 29 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 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2008 Citroen C8. (156 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen C8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen C8 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Citroen C8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Citroen C8. (217 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Citroen C8. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2008 Citroen C8 has manual transmission. 2008 Citroen C8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen C8 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C8 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2230 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2940 mm |
