1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2012 GMC Savana
To start off, 2012 GMC Savana is newer by 34 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 6,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 GMC Savana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Savana (260 HP @ 3100 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Savana should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Savana weights approximately 796 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, 2012 GMC Savana (711 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 574 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Savana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2012 GMC Savana 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. 2012 GMC Savana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 2012 GMC Savana | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | GMC |
| Model | 240 | Savana |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 6600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 711 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 2361 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 5692 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2012 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 2070 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 3429 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 117 L |
