1990 Dodge Caravan vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 1990 Dodge Caravan is newer by 12 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 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Dodge Caravan (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1990 Dodge Caravan.
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, 1990 Dodge Caravan, 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, 1990 Dodge Caravan (183 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1990 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Dodge Caravan | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Caravan | 240 |
Year Released | 1990 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2501 cc | 2398 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1565 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 5360 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 3430 mm |