2007 BMW X3 vs. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X3 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 2007 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 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, 2007 BMW X3 (306 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW X3 | 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 306 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2460 mm |
