1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R (503 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 318 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R (632 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 394 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2007 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | R |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 632 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 102.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 80 L |
