1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 21 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz V (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz V should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 435 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz V, 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz V (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz V 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 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 240 | V |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| 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 | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 3010 mm |
