2009 Acura RL vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2009 Acura RL is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 3,664 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura RL (301 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Acura RL weights approximately 15 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Acura RL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura RL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Acura RL (367 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura RL | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Acura | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RL | 280 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3664 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 301 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 367 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4980 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2940 mm |
