1958 BMW Isetta vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW Isetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW Isetta 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) has 157 more horse power than 1958 BMW Isetta. (13 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW Isetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 935 kg more than 1958 BMW Isetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW Isetta | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Isetta | 280 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 247 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 1 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | single | in-line |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 170 HP |
| Top Speed | 85 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 1 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 360 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2300 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1510 mm | 2410 mm |
