2003 Fiat Punto vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2003 Fiat Punto is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Fiat Punto (94 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (78 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Punto should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 464 kg more than 2003 Fiat Punto.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Punto, 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Punto. (128 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Punto | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Punto | 240 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 3005 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 19.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 65 L |
