1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2009 Kia Carens

To start off, 2009 Kia Carens is newer by 36 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2009 Kia Carens. (124 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Carens. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2009 Kia Carens. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Carens, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Carens. (163 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Carens. 2009 Kia Carens 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. 2009 Kia Carens will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 2009 Kia Carens
Make Mercedes-Benz Kia
Model 280 Carens
Year Released 1973 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2746 cc 1793 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 185 HP 124 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 238 Nm 163 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4900 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86.1 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.8 mm 87 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1615 kg 1515 kg
Vehicle Length 4970 mm 4500 mm
Vehicle Width 1870 mm 1750 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1620 mm
Wheelbase Size 2870 mm 2570 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 95 L 55 L