1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2010 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2010 Nissan Altima is newer by 32 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Nissan Altima 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 53 kg more than 2010 Nissan Altima.
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, 2010 Nissan Altima, 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, 2010 Nissan Altima (349 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2010 Nissan Altima 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 | 2010 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Nissan |
| Model | 240 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2675 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 76 L |
