1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 27 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 234 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E (311 Nm) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 240 | E |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1799 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
