2006 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 170 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | E | 280 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 95 L |
