1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Caravelle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Caravelle 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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Caravelle (172 HP) has 2 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (170 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Caravelle should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 133 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Caravelle.
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, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Caravelle (315 Nm @ 2950 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Caravelle | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | Caravelle |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2460 cc |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 172 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2950 RPM |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1162 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 80 L |
