1986 Chrysler ES vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1986 Chrysler ES is newer by 13 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 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1986 Chrysler ES. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1986 Chrysler ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 333 kg more than 1986 Chrysler ES. 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, 1986 Chrysler ES, 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 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Chrysler ES. (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Chrysler ES.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Chrysler ES | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | ES | 280 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 104 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2760 mm |
