2003 BMW X3 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 25 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 455 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 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 BMW X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2003 BMW X3 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. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW X3 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | X3 | 240 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2399 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 185 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 91 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 21.0:1 |
Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 65 L |