2001 Citroen C5 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2001 Citroen C5 is newer by 23 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Citroen C5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Citroen C5 (207 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Citroen C5 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 17 kg more than 2001 Citroen C5.
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, 2001 Citroen C5, 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, 2001 Citroen C5 (285 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2001 Citroen C5 has automatic transmission and 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 has manual transmission. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Citroen C5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Citroen C5 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C5 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.9:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1548 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 65 L |
