1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 31 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 22 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. (160 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2005 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (251 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | C |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 228 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
