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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW Z4 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 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. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2009 BMW Z4.
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 (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 10 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. 2009 BMW Z4 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 Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 2494 cc | 2778 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 78.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1295 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |