2002 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 24 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, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier 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 377 kg more than 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Cavalier | 240 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 3430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 65 L |
