1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1973 Datsun 240Z
To start off, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Datsun 240Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Datsun 240Z would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1973 Datsun 240Z. (151 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1973 Datsun 240Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 492 kg more than 1973 Datsun 240Z. 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Datsun 240Z. (198 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Datsun 240Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1973 Datsun 240Z | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Datsun |
| Model | 280 | 240Z |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 151 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1068 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2300 mm |
