2006 BMW X5 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2006 BMW X5 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 4,392 cc, 2006 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X5 (315 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X5 weights approximately 675 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 BMW X5 (439 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X5 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4392 cc | 2745 cc |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 439 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2235 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2940 mm |
