1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2004 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane 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 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Megane (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 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 355 kg more than 2004 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, 2004 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Renault Megane. (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Renault Megane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 2004 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Renault |
| Model | 240 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 1459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
