1988 Buick LeSabre vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1988 Buick LeSabre is newer by 15 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1988 Buick LeSabre. (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1988 Buick LeSabre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 205 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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, 1988 Buick LeSabre, 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, 1988 Buick LeSabre (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Buick LeSabre | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | LeSabre | 280 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3790 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 64 L |
