1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 33 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 280 | C |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
