1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair
To start off, 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair is newer by 15 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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair weights approximately 105 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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, 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair, 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 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair. (171 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair. 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair 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. 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1988 Mitsubishi Debonair | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 280 | Debonair |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
