2008 Cadillac CTS vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2008 Cadillac CTS is newer by 35 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac CTS (210 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (160 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 60 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 2008 Cadillac CTS 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, 2008 Cadillac CTS 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, 2008 Cadillac CTS (263 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac CTS | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Cadillac | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | CTS | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 263 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74.7 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 82 L |
