2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 32 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 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (345 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (175 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 281 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.
Because 1976 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram, 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (510 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 277 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2008 Dodge Ram 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. 2008 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ram | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1464 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6300 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 4080 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 129 L | 79 L |
