1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1969 Peugeot 304
To start off, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Peugeot 304 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 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1969 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1969 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 645 kg more than 1969 Peugeot 304. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Peugeot 304, 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1969 Peugeot 304 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Peugeot |
| Model | 280 | 304 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 71 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 42 L |
