2003 Alfa Romeo GT vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo GT. (162 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo GT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo GT. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo GT, 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo GT. (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo GT. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo GT has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo GT will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo GT | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | GT | 280 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 162 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.7 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
