1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1999 Subaru Outback
To start off, 1999 Subaru Outback 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 2,746 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 31 more horse power than 1999 Subaru Outback. (154 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1999 Subaru Outback. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1999 Subaru Outback. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Subaru Outback. (223 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Subaru Outback. 1999 Subaru Outback 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. 1999 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1999 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | 280 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 64 L |
