1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2008 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2008 Opel Meriva 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2008 Opel Meriva.
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, 2008 Opel Meriva, 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, 2008 Opel Meriva (165 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Meriva 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 | 2008 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 240 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 53 L |
