1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 25 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane 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 65 kg more than 2003 Renault Megane.
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, 2003 Renault Megane, 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, 2003 Renault Megane (147 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane 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 | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 240 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2530 mm |
