2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,404 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 28 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | RX-8 | 240 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 2404 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 24.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1392 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |
