1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1986 Subaru XT
To start off, 1986 Subaru XT is newer by 13 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 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 337 kg more than 1986 Subaru XT. 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, 1986 Subaru XT, 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 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Subaru XT. (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Subaru XT.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1986 Subaru XT | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | 280 | XT |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2672 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 60 L |
