1990 Holden Gemini vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1990 Holden Gemini is newer by 17 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 113 more horse power than 1990 Holden Gemini. (72 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1990 Holden Gemini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 648 kg more than 1990 Holden Gemini. 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, 1990 Holden Gemini, 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 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Holden Gemini. (116 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Holden Gemini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Holden Gemini | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Holden | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Gemini | 280 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1471 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2760 mm |
