1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2007 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2007 Opel Zafira 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 Opel Zafira (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Zafira 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 20 kg more than 2007 Opel Zafira.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Opel Zafira, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Opel Zafira (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Zafira 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 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 58 L |
