1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 7,253 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML (582 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 400 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 490 kg more than 1974 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML (721 Nm) has 483 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | ML |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 7253 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 582 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 721 Nm |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 331 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 2050 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2520 mm |
