2008 Fiat Idea vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2008 Fiat Idea is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Idea. (79 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 358 kg more than 2008 Fiat Idea. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Fiat Idea, 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat Idea. (114 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat Idea.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Idea | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Idea | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 78 L |
