1968 Lotus Seven vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1968 Lotus Seven. (83 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1968 Lotus Seven. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 1065 kg more than 1968 Lotus Seven. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 1968 Lotus Seven | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Seven | 280 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 550 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2870 mm |
