1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 1992 Renault Safrane
To start off, 1992 Renault Safrane is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Renault Safrane (98 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Renault Safrane should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1992 Renault Safrane.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Renault Safrane, 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, 1992 Renault Safrane (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1992 Renault Safrane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 1992 Renault Safrane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 240 | Safrane |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 2068 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 21.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2770 mm |
