2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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 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 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2009 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda 3 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 3 | 280 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2778 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1295 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |