2004 Mazda 2 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Mazda 2 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 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 2. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 2 weights approximately 228 kg more than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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 Mazda 2, 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 2. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 2 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 2 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 181 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1788 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 90 L |
