1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (237 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 565 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (617 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 480 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 240 | S |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 617 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 15.5 :1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 2130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 5226 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2120 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 3165 mm |
