1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2011 Ford F-450

To start off, 2011 Ford F-450 is newer by 38 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 6,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Ford F-450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford F-450 (399 HP @ 2800 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford F-450 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.

Because 2011 Ford F-450 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford F-450 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, 2011 Ford F-450 (1,085 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 845 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Ford F-450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2011 Ford F-450 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. 2011 Ford F-450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 2011 Ford F-450
Make Mercedes-Benz Ford
Model 280 F-450
Year Released 1973 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2778 cc 6700 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 170 HP 399 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 2800 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 1085 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 1600 RPM
Drive Type Rear AWD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Length 4310 mm 6680 mm
Vehicle Width 1770 mm 2438 mm
Vehicle Height 1320 mm 2024 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 4379 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 64 L 142 L