2005 Kia Optima vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 27 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 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 78 kg more than 2005 Kia Optima.
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, 2005 Kia Optima, 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, 2005 Kia Optima (241 Nm) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Kia Optima | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Optima | 240 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2671 cc | 2398 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 241 Nm | 137 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 90.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1565 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 5360 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |