2009 Audi R8 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2009 Audi R8 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 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi R8 (414 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 342 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 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 5 kg more than 2009 Audi R8.
Because 2009 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 will offer significantly more control. 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 R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi R8 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | R8 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4163 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 430 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 65 L |
