2004 Mazda 6 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Mazda 6 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 6 (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 530 kg more than 2004 Mazda 6.
Because 2004 Mazda 6 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 Mazda 6 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 Mazda 6 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 6 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 6 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2940 mm |
