1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2003 Toyota Avensis
To start off, 2003 Toyota Avensis 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 Toyota Avensis (157 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Toyota Avensis should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Toyota Avensis weights approximately 25 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, 2003 Toyota Avensis, 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 Toyota Avensis (204 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Toyota Avensis 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 Toyota Avensis | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Toyota |
| Model | 240 | Avensis |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
