1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2012 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Sonata 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (198 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
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, 2012 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (249 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2012 Hyundai Sonata 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 Hyundai Sonata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Hyundai |
Model | 240 | Sonata |
Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2398 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 198 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 249 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 4821 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1834 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2794 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |