2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 34 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 6,206 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (507 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 322 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 393 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CLS | 280 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6206 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 507 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 631 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 102.2 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 95 L |
