1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 81 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 655 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 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 | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 280 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 80 L |
