1992 Ford Probe vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 1992 Ford Probe is newer by 14 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 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Ford Probe (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Ford Probe 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 315 kg more than 1992 Ford Probe.
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, 1992 Ford Probe, 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, 1992 Ford Probe (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1992 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Ford Probe | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Probe | 240 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2183 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 3430 mm |
