1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 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 133 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 648 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 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:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 1492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2430 mm |
