1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 vs. 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320
To start off, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 would be higher. At 3,208 cc (6 cylinders), 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 (108 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320. (78 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 should accelerate faster than 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 weights approximately 500 kg more than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4.
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, 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 (223 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4. (186 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mercedes-Benz 230.4 | 1942 Mercedes-Benz 320 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 230.4 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1942 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 3208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3310 mm |
