1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2011 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2011 Volvo XC90 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 2,400 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo XC90 (200 HP) has 128 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 590 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 2011 Volvo XC90 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, 2011 Volvo XC90 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, 2011 Volvo XC90 (420 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo XC90 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 | 2011 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 240 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 420 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
