1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. (167 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 277 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E 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 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | E |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1572 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 65 L |
