2008 Fiat Panda vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2008 Fiat Panda is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2008 Fiat Panda. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 625 kg more than 2008 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Fiat Panda, 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat Panda. (180 Nm). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat Panda. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2008 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 2008 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat Panda | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 160 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 935 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 90 L |
