1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2005 Proton Saloon
To start off, 2005 Proton Saloon 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Proton Saloon (82 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Proton Saloon 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 465 kg more than 2005 Proton Saloon.
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, 2005 Proton Saloon, 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 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Proton Saloon. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Proton Saloon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 2005 Proton Saloon | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Proton |
| Model | 240 | Saloon |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2390 mm |
