2007 Dodge Caravan vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2007 Dodge Caravan is newer by 29 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 3,299 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Dodge Caravan (170 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
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, 2007 Dodge Caravan, 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, 2007 Dodge Caravan (271 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2007 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 has manual transmission. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Dodge Caravan | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Caravan | 240 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3299 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 8 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 3430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 65 L |
