2005 Kia Optima vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima 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 73 kg more than 2005 Kia Optima.
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 Kia Optima, 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 Kia Optima (241 Nm) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (223 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Kia Optima | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Optima | 280 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 156 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 241 Nm | 223 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1560 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2940 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 90 L |