1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2005 Rolls-Royce Park Ward
To start off, 2005 Rolls-Royce Park Ward is newer by 32 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 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Rolls-Royce Park Ward is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Rolls-Royce Park Ward (322 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Rolls-Royce Park Ward should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Rolls-Royce Park Ward weights approximately 1155 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2005 Rolls-Royce Park Ward (490 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Rolls-Royce Park Ward will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2005 Rolls-Royce Park Ward 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. 2005 Rolls-Royce Park Ward will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2005 Rolls-Royce Park Ward | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Rolls-Royce |
| Model | 280 | Park Ward |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 5379 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 322 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 2450 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 100 L |
