2009 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 31 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 2,698 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (187 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Audi A4, 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, 2009 Audi A4 (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A4 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2698 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.8:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 65 L |
