2008 Kia Picanto vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2008 Kia Picanto is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2008 Kia Picanto. (64 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Picanto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 625 kg more than 2008 Kia Picanto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Picanto, 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Picanto. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Picanto. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2008 Kia Picanto has manual transmission. 2008 Kia Picanto will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Picanto | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Picanto | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1084 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 154 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.1 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 65 L |
