2005 Ford Ranger vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Ford Ranger is newer by 31 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 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Ranger (206 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Ranger 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 262 kg more than 2005 Ford Ranger.
Because 2005 Ford Ranger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Ranger 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, 2005 Ford Ranger (323 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2005 Ford Ranger has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Ranger 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:
| 2005 Ford Ranger | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ranger | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 206 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 323 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1560 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 84 L | 90 L |
