1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2002 Lancia Zeta
To start off, 2002 Lancia Zeta is newer by 29 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 36 more horse power than 2002 Lancia Zeta. (134 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2002 Lancia Zeta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Lancia Zeta weights approximately 305 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, 2002 Lancia Zeta, 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Lancia Zeta. (181 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Lancia Zeta. 2002 Lancia Zeta 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. 2002 Lancia Zeta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2002 Lancia Zeta | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lancia |
| Model | 280 | Zeta |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 80 L |
