2006 Ford E-250 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2006 Ford E-250 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Ford E-250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford E-250 (225 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (160 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford E-250 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 276 kg more than 2006 Ford E-250.
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 Ford E-250, 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 Ford E-250 (388 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Ford E-250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford E-250 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E-250 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1224 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3510 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 82 L |
