2009 BMW X5 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2009 BMW X5 is newer by 30 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X5 (350 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 2009 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, 2009 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, 2009 BMW X5 (475 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X5 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | X5 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2940 mm |
