1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 33 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (302 HP @ 2700 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 100 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
