1999 Lexus RX vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1999 Lexus RX is newer by 26 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 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lexus RX (220 HP) has 60 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (160 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus RX weights approximately 930 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, 1999 Lexus RX (301 Nm) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (224 Nm). This means 1999 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 1999 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 has manual transmission. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Lexus RX | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RX | 280 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2995 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 160 HP |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2430 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2760 mm |
