1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2005 Saturn LW
To start off, 2005 Saturn LW 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 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 25 more horse power than 2005 Saturn LW. (135 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saturn LW. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 102 kg more than 2005 Saturn LW. 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, 2005 Saturn LW, 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 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Saturn LW. (199 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Saturn LW.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2005 Saturn LW | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
| Model | 280 | LW |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 199 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 59 L |
