1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 31 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 65 more horse power than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 293 kg more than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. 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, 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier 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. 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Chevrolet |
| Model | 280 | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 57 L |
