2006 Ford F-150 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2006 Ford F-150 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 5,406 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Ford F-150 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford F-150 (300 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford F-150 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford F-150 weights approximately 207 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Ford F-150 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford F-150 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, 2006 Ford F-150 (495 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Ford F-150 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford F-150 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | F-150 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5406 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 495 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 106 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5690 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3520 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 114 L | 78 L |
