2009 Ford Taurus X vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus X 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus X is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus X (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus X 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 278 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus X.
Because 2009 Ford Taurus X is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus X 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 Ford Taurus X (338 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus X will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. 2009 Ford Taurus X 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. 2009 Ford Taurus X will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus X | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Taurus X | 240 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 338 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 65 L |
