1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2005 Volvo S60
To start off, 2005 Volvo S60 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, 2005 Volvo S60 (300 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S60 weights approximately 181 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.
Because 2005 Volvo S60 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, 2005 Volvo S60 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, 2005 Volvo S60 (400 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S60 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 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 280 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1689 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 68 L |
