1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1981 Nissan Stanza

To start off, 1981 Nissan Stanza is newer by 8 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 69 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 620 kg more than 1981 Nissan Stanza. 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, 1981 Nissan Stanza, 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 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (142 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza. 1981 Nissan Stanza has automatic transmission and 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Nissan Stanza will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 1981 Nissan Stanza
Make Mercedes-Benz Nissan
Model 280 Stanza
Year Released 1973 1981
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2746 cc 1809 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 156 HP 87 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 223 Nm 142 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3200 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1560 kg 940 kg
Vehicle Length 5000 mm 4310 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2940 mm 2480 mm