1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 35 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), 2013 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (298 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz E (370 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz E 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 240 | E |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
