1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat 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 120 kg more than 2007 Volkswagen Passat.
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 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Volkswagen Passat (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Passat 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 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
| Model | 240 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| 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 | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
