2003 Chevrolet Silverado vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 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 6,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Chevrolet Silverado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado (340 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 268 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Chevrolet Silverado weights approximately 995 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 Chevrolet Silverado 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 Chevrolet Silverado 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 Chevrolet Silverado (488 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Chevrolet Silverado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 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 Chevrolet Silverado will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Silverado | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Silverado | 240 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6599 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 340 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 488 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2560 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5790 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3650 mm | 3430 mm |
