2009 BMW X3 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (282 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 BMW X3 (580 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X3 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X3 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 65 L |
