1991 BMW M12 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW M12 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | M12 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2800 mm |
