2006 Fiat Idea vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2006 Fiat Idea is newer by 28 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, 2006 Fiat Idea (79 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Fiat Idea 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 415 kg more than 2006 Fiat Idea.
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, 2006 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Fiat Idea. (114 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Fiat Idea.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Fiat Idea | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Idea | 240 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1241 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 65 L |
