1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2010 BMW Z4
To start off, 2010 BMW Z4 is newer by 36 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, 2010 BMW Z4 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (78 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW Z4 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2010 BMW Z4 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2010 BMW Z4 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 | 2010 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | BMW |
| Model | 240 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3005 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 148 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 19.9 seconds | 5.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
