2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 380 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
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, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 3 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 156 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
