1987 Ford Tempo vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1987 Ford Tempo 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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1987 Ford Tempo. (89 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1987 Ford Tempo. 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 Ford Tempo, 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 (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Ford Tempo | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Tempo | 280 |
Year Released | 1987 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2307 cc | 2778 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 224 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4910 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2760 mm |