1995 Lancia Zeta vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 1995 Lancia Zeta is newer by 17 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Lancia Zeta (145 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Lancia Zeta should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Lancia Zeta weights approximately 265 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 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, 1995 Lancia Zeta, 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, 1995 Lancia Zeta (236 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1995 Lancia Zeta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Lancia Zeta | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Lancia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Zeta | 240 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2800 mm |
