2003 Ford Taurus vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 Ford Taurus 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2003 Ford Taurus. (155 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Taurus weights approximately 77 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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, 2003 Ford Taurus, 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 Ford Taurus (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2003 Ford Taurus 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. 2003 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Taurus | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | 280 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 78 L |
