2009 BMW 635 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2009 BMW 635 is newer by 36 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 635 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 635 (282 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 635 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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, 2009 BMW 635 (580 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 342 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 635 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2009 BMW 635 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. 2009 BMW 635 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 635 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 635 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 238 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 78 L |
