2005 Ford Taurus vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Ford Taurus 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 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2005 Ford Taurus. (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 233 kg more than 2005 Ford Taurus. 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 Taurus, 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 Taurus (251 Nm) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Taurus | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 78 L |
