1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 34 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 305 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | C |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 62 L |
