2009 Ford Bantam vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2009 Ford Bantam is newer by 35 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 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 (78 HP) has 4 more horse power than 2009 Ford Bantam. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Bantam. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 410 kg more than 2009 Ford Bantam. 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, 2009 Ford Bantam, 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Bantam. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Bantam.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Bantam | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Bantam | 240 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 3005 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 78 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 158 km/hour | 148 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.9 seconds | 19.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
