2008 BMW 320 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 30 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, 2008 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 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 60 kg more than 2008 BMW 320.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2008 BMW 320 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. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 320 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 320 | 240 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2398 cc |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 92.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 21.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1565 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5360 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |