2006 Dodge Grand Caravan vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 33 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 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan. (180 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 376 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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, 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan, 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, 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Grand Caravan | 280 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3310 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1884 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 78 L |
