2005 Ford Freestar vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Ford Freestar is newer by 32 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 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Freestar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Freestar (190 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Freestar should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Freestar weights approximately 325 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 1973 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Freestar, 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, 2005 Ford Freestar (336 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Freestar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2005 Ford Freestar has automatic transmission and 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Ford Freestar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Freestar | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Freestar | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 336 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 95 L |
