2009 Jaguar XJ vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2009 Jaguar XJ 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 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Jaguar XJ (400 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (170 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 439 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 Jaguar XJ (560 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 320 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 2009 Jaguar XJ 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 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Jaguar XJ | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Jaguar | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | XJ | 280 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 400 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1734 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5220 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3170 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 84 L | 64 L |
