2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (78 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 216 kg more than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Sonata | 240 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3342 cc | 3005 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.8 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.7 seconds | 19.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1646 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
