1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee

To start off, 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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 3,960 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee (195 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee weights approximately 421 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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, 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee (312 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Make Mercedes-Benz Jeep
Model 280 Grand Cherokee
Year Released 1973 2003
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2778 cc 3960 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 170 HP 195 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 312 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86.5 mm 98.4 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.8 mm 86.7 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 8.7:1
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1295 kg 1716 kg
Vehicle Length 4310 mm 4620 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 1770 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 2700 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 64 L 78 L