1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 26 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 490 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2004 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. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 240 | S |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 401 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 88 L |
