1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 23 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 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 59 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML.
Because 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 has manual transmission. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 240 | ML |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1506 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 83 L |
