2002 Cadillac Eldorado vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2002 Cadillac Eldorado is newer by 29 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 4,572 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Cadillac Eldorado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Cadillac Eldorado (315 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Cadillac Eldorado should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Cadillac Eldorado weights approximately 222 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 2002 Cadillac Eldorado, 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, 2002 Cadillac Eldorado (407 Nm) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm). This means 2002 Cadillac Eldorado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2002 Cadillac Eldorado has automatic transmission and 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Cadillac Eldorado will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Cadillac Eldorado | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Eldorado | 280 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4572 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2760 mm |
