1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2002 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2002 Opel Zafira 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 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Zafira (102 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Zafira 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 175 kg more than 2002 Opel Zafira.
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, 2002 Opel Zafira, 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, 2002 Opel Zafira (150 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Zafira 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 | 2002 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 240 | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 58 L |
