2003 MCC Smart vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2003 MCC Smart 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (156 HP) has 50 more horse power than 2003 MCC Smart. (106 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2003 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 585 kg more than 2003 MCC Smart. 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, 2003 MCC Smart, 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 (223 Nm) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 MCC Smart. (145 Nm). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 MCC Smart. 2003 MCC Smart 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 MCC Smart will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 MCC Smart | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | MCC | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Smart | 280 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1499 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 156 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3760 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 90 L |
