1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1999 Opel Frontera
To start off, 1999 Opel Frontera is newer by 26 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 56 more horse power than 1999 Opel Frontera. (114 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Frontera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Frontera weights approximately 525 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1999 Opel Frontera is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Opel Frontera will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Opel Frontera (260 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Frontera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1999 Opel Frontera | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Frontera |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
