1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 1998 Proton Persona
To start off, 1998 Proton Persona is newer by 20 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, 1998 Proton Persona (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Proton Persona 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 605 kg more than 1998 Proton Persona.
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, 1998 Proton Persona, 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Proton Persona. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Proton Persona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 1998 Proton Persona | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Proton |
| Model | 240 | Persona |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2510 mm |
