1987 Austin Maestro vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1987 Austin Maestro is newer by 14 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 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1987 Austin Maestro. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1987 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 700 kg more than 1987 Austin Maestro. 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, 1987 Austin Maestro, 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 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Austin Maestro. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Austin Maestro | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maestro | 280 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 95 L |
