1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2012 BMW 328
To start off, 2012 BMW 328 is newer by 39 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 328 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 328 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 328 weights approximately 330 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.
Because 2012 BMW 328 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW 328 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 BMW 328 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 328 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 | 2012 BMW 328 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | 280 | 328 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4536 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1417 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 57 L |
