2004 Dodge Ram vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Dodge Ram is newer by 31 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 5,882 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Ram (305 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Ram weights approximately 1641 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.
Because 2004 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Ram will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Dodge Ram (753 Nm) has 515 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm). This means 2004 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Ram | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ram | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5882 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 305 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 753 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 102 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 120 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 3149 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5790 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2040 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2020 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3580 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 129 L | 78 L |
