1985 Ford Laser vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1985 Ford Laser is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1985 Ford Laser. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 738 kg more than 1985 Ford Laser. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Ford Laser, 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Laser. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Laser | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Laser | 280 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 822 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2940 mm |
