2004 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 26 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, 2004 Audi A4 (169 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Because 2004 Audi A4 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, 2004 Audi A4 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, 2004 Audi A4 (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 169 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 65 L |
