1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 4,662 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 263 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 340 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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 GL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 323 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 240 | GL |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 4662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 100 L |
