1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport is newer by 24 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 25 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport weights approximately 407 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, 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport, 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 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport. (190 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | 280 | Trans Sport |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 76 L |
