1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 1986 Peugeot 309
To start off, 1986 Peugeot 309 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Peugeot 309 (106 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (78 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Peugeot 309 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 520 kg more than 1986 Peugeot 309.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Peugeot 309, 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Peugeot 309. (163 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Peugeot 309.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 1986 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Peugeot |
| Model | 240 | 309 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3005 cc | 1905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
