1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2000 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 27 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 71 more horse power than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 37 kg more than 2000 Volkswagen Golf. 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, 2000 Volkswagen Golf, 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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2000 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2000 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2000 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1981 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 184 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1258 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
