2004 Ford Escape vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Ford Escape is newer by 30 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Escape (210 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 42 kg more than 2004 Ford Escape.
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, 2004 Ford Escape, 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, 2004 Ford Escape (271 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Escape | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Escape | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1518 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 90 L |
