1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 31 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 2,996 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 307 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (300 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 240 | C |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2996 cc |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1692 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 66 L |
