1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 30 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 3,199 cc, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 80 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 has manual transmission. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 240 | E |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 3199 cc |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
