2003 Cadillac CTS vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 Cadillac CTS is newer by 30 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, 2003 Cadillac CTS (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (160 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 120 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.
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, 2003 Cadillac CTS (245 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Cadillac CTS | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CTS | 280 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.6 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 82 L |
