1956 Maserati 350S vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Maserati 350S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Maserati 350S would be higher. At 3,483 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Maserati 350S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Maserati 350S (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Maserati 350S should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 738 kg more than 1956 Maserati 350S.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Maserati 350S | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 350S | 280 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3483 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 321 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 770 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 990 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2760 mm |
