1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle 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 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle weights approximately 377 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, 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle, 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, 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle (250 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle 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 | 2005 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 2461 cc |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 9 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1885 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 80 L |
