1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,404 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 (63 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (58 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. (138 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 240 | A |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2404 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 133 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 27.4 seconds | 18.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 54 L |
