1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Golf 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 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. (105 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 100 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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Golf 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 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
