1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 33 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. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 150 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.
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, 2011 Kia Optima, 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2011 Kia Optima 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. 2011 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 2011 Kia Optima | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Kia |
Model | 240 | Optima |
Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2399 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 274 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 364 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1535 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4844 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1831 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1455 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2797 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |