1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1985 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1985 Ford Tempo is newer by 12 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 85 more horse power than 1985 Ford Tempo. (100 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 343 kg more than 1985 Ford Tempo. 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, 1985 Ford Tempo, 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 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Tempo. 1985 Ford Tempo 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. 1985 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1985 Ford Tempo | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
Model | 280 | Tempo |
Year Released | 1973 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2745 cc | 2307 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 185 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 238 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1165 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2540 mm |