1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2004 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2004 Subaru Outback 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Subaru Outback (212 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Subaru Outback weights approximately 177 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.
Because 2004 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Subaru Outback will offer significantly more control. 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 Subaru Outback (285 Nm) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm). This means 2004 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Subaru |
| Model | 280 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 89.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 64 L |
