1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 24 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 595 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 323 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 240 | S |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 88 L |
