1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2010 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2010 Nissan Maxima is newer by 37 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Nissan Maxima (290 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 46 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 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, 2010 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2010 Nissan Maxima (353 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Nissan Maxima 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 | 2010 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | 280 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4841 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1468 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 76 L |
