1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2004 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane 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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2004 Renault Megane. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2004 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2004 Renault Megane. 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 Renault Megane, 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 (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Renault Megane. (152 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Renault Megane. 2004 Renault Megane 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 Renault Megane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2004 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 280 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2530 mm |
