1974 Chevrolet Nova vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1974 Chevrolet Nova is newer by 1 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 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. (143 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1974 Chevrolet Nova. 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, 1974 Chevrolet Nova (340 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 1974 Chevrolet Nova 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. 1974 Chevrolet Nova will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Chevrolet Nova | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Nova | 280 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5736 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2870 mm |
