1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1989 Volvo 480
To start off, 1989 Volvo 480 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 (238 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1989 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 480, 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, 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 (271 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 480. (141 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
1959 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1989 Volvo 480 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | 300 | 480 |
Year Released | 1959 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1721 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 238 HP | 109 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 141 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1000 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |