2002 Mazda 626 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2002 Mazda 626 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 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 70 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 53 kg more than 2002 Mazda 626. 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 Mazda 626, 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 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 626. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 626 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 626 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 64 L |
