1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2011 Mazda BT-50
To start off, 2011 Mazda BT-50 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 2,953 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda BT-50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2011 Mazda BT-50. (154 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda BT-50.
Because 2011 Mazda BT-50 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, 2011 Mazda BT-50 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 Mazda BT-50 (380 Nm @ 180 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda BT-50 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 | 2011 Mazda BT-50 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mazda |
| Model | 280 | BT-50 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 180 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 96.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 102 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 3010 mm |
