1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 34 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (78 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A 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 205 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
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, 2008 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 240 | A |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3005 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 69.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 148 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 19.9 seconds | 12.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 54 L |
