1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2003 Saturn L
To start off, 2003 Saturn L 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 50 more horse power than 2003 Saturn L. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2003 Saturn L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 188 kg more than 2003 Saturn L. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Saturn L, 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 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Saturn L. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Saturn L.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2003 Saturn L | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
Model | 280 | L |
Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2745 cc | 2196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 185 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 238 Nm | 199 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 59 L |