1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2008 Porsche Cayenne
To start off, 2008 Porsche Cayenne 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 3,598 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Porsche Cayenne is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Porsche Cayenne (287 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Porsche Cayenne should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Porsche Cayenne weights approximately 865 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.
Because 2008 Porsche Cayenne 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, 2008 Porsche Cayenne 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, 2008 Porsche Cayenne (385 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Porsche Cayenne 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 Porsche Cayenne | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | 280 | Cayenne |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 3598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 287 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 385 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 96.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 12.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 2160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 100 L |
