1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2012 Dodge Challenger
To start off, 2012 Dodge Challenger is newer by 39 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 5,700 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Dodge Challenger (376 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 557 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Dodge Challenger (555 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 315 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Dodge Challenger 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 | 2012 Dodge Challenger | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Dodge |
| Model | 280 | Challenger |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 5700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 376 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5150 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 555 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 5022 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1923 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2946 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 72 L |
