1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 184 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz E (300 Nm) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | E |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1799 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 78 L |
