1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2003 Honda CR-V
To start off, 2003 Honda CR-V is newer by 30 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 2,745 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 25 more horse power than 2003 Honda CR-V. (160 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2003 Honda CR-V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Honda CR-V weights approximately 10 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 2003 Honda CR-V 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, 2003 Honda CR-V 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) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Honda CR-V. (220 Nm). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Honda CR-V. 2003 Honda CR-V 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. 2003 Honda CR-V will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2003 Honda CR-V | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Honda |
| Model | 280 | CR-V |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1518 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 58 L |
