1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 35 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (169 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (78 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 240 | C |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3005 cc | 2148 cc |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 148 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 19.9 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 66 L |
