2009 Citroen C5 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2009 Citroen C5 is newer by 36 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C5 (208 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C5 weights approximately 221 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 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, 2009 Citroen C5, 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, 2009 Citroen C5 (290 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2009 Citroen C5 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. 2009 Citroen C5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C5 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C5 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1836 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 95 L |
