2005 BMW X5 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2005 BMW X5 is newer by 32 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW X5 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (160 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW X5 weights approximately 670 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 2005 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW X5 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, 2005 BMW X5 (520 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 296 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW X5 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 520 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2170 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 93 L | 82 L |
