1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1980 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 1980 Suzuki Alto is newer by 7 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 2,746 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 118 more horse power than 1980 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1980 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 950 kg more than 1980 Suzuki Alto. 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, 1980 Suzuki Alto, 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 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Suzuki Alto. (60 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1980 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | 280 | Alto |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 3300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2160 mm |
