2008 BMW 325 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 35 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 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 172 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 2008 BMW 325 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, 2008 BMW 325 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, 2008 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 325 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 325 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1508 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 78 L |
