1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 25 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 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 205 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLK | 280 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
