1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep 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 2,746 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 37 more horse power than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 40 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2003 Saab 03-Sep 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 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saab |
Model | 280 | 03-Sep |
Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 185 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 238 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1655 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 61 L |