1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is newer by 11 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) has 48 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 72 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 230 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 90 L |
