2008 Kia Spectra vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2008 Kia Spectra 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 44 more horse power than 2008 Kia Spectra. (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 49 kg more than 2008 Kia Spectra. 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 Kia Spectra, 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 @ 4500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Spectra. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Spectra. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2008 Kia Spectra has manual transmission. 2008 Kia Spectra 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 Kia Spectra | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Spectra | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1511 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 90 L |
