1959 BMW 700 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 700 would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1959 BMW 700. (38 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 905 kg more than 1959 BMW 700. 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (137 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 700. (52 Nm). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 700 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 700 | 240 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 697 cc | 2398 cc |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 3430 mm |
