1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 16 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 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
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, 1989 Mazda 323, 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 (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda 323 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 323 | 280 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 126 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2940 mm |