1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 419 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 612 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 SL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 762 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 280 | SL |
Year Released | 1973 | 2007 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2745 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 185 HP | 604 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 238 Nm | 1000 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 2120 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 80 L |