1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2007 Saturn ION
To start off, 2007 Saturn ION is newer by 29 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, 2007 Saturn ION (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Saturn ION 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 236 kg more than 2007 Saturn ION.
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, 2007 Saturn ION, 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, 2007 Saturn ION (203 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Saturn ION 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 | 2007 Saturn ION | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Saturn |
Model | 240 | ION |
Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2398 cc | 2198 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 145 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 203 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 86.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 94.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1329 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 4690 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2630 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 49 L |