2003 Chrysler 300 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 Chrysler 300 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, 2003 Chrysler 300 (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 Chrysler 300, 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, 2003 Chrysler 300 (255 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Chrysler 300 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Chrysler | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 300 | 280 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2734 cc | 2744 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 238 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2830 mm |