1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2004 Pontiac Montana
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Montana 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 3,392 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac Montana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 185 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Pontiac Montana weights approximately 105 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, 2004 Pontiac Montana, 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, 2004 Pontiac Montana (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Pontiac Montana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2004 Pontiac Montana 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 Pontiac Montana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2004 Pontiac Montana | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Pontiac |
| Model | 280 | Montana |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 76 L |
