2004 Fiat Idea vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2004 Fiat Idea 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Idea. (71 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 235 kg more than 2004 Fiat Idea. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2004 Fiat Idea, 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, 2004 Fiat Idea (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Idea | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Idea | 240 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1450 mm |
