2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (170 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 120 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz SLK (311 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLK | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3196 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 64 L |
