2009 Lotus Evora vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2009 Lotus Evora 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Evora is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Evora (276 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Evora 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, 2009 Lotus Evora (342 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Evora will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Evora | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Evora | 280 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 342 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
