1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2001 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2001 Toyota MR2 is newer by 27 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 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2001 Toyota MR2. (140 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2001 Toyota MR2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Toyota MR2. (170 Nm). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Toyota MR2. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2001 Toyota MR2 has manual transmission. 2001 Toyota MR2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2001 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | 280 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2470 mm |
