2009 BMW Z4 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2009 BMW Z4 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (170 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW Z4 weights approximately 100 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.
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 Z4 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW Z4 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Z4 | 280 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
