1965 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 5 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1965 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | SL | 280 |
Year Released | 1965 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2305 cc | 2778 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 196 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1295 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |