1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2012 Lexus IS. (150 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2012 Lexus IS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2012 Lexus IS. 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, 2012 Lexus IS (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2012 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | 280 | IS |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 65 L |
