1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2011 Lexus IS
To start off, 2011 Lexus IS is newer by 38 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, 2011 Lexus IS (204 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus IS weights approximately 447 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.
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, 2011 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2011 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | 280 | IS |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 65 L |
