1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1989 Renault 19
To start off, 1989 Renault 19 is newer by 16 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 93 more horse power than 1989 Renault 19. (92 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1989 Renault 19. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 543 kg more than 1989 Renault 19. 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, 1989 Renault 19, 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 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Renault 19. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Renault 19.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1989 Renault 19 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 280 | 19 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 92 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 115 L |
