1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 1445 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 CLK (510 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 373 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 CLK | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 240 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 62 L |
