1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2004 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 2004 Suzuki Vitara 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, 2004 Suzuki Vitara (165 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Suzuki Vitara should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2004 Suzuki Vitara.
Because 2004 Suzuki Vitara 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 Suzuki Vitara 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (224 Nm) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Suzuki Vitara. (220 Nm). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Suzuki Vitara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2004 Suzuki Vitara | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Suzuki |
| Model | 280 | Vitara |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1248 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 64 L |
