1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 35 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 245 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 216 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 62 L |
