1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2011 Lexus RX
To start off, 2011 Lexus RX is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus RX (275 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. (160 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus RX weights approximately 285 kg more than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Lexus RX, 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, 2011 Lexus RX (348 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. (225 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2011 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2011 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | 280 | RX |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 348 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2741 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 73 L |
