1965 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Volvo C30
To start off, 2008 Volvo C30 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,305 cc (6 cylinders), 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 Volvo C30. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo C30. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo C30 weights approximately 27 kg more than 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo C30, 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, 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo C30. (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo C30.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | C30 |
| Year Released | 1965 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2305 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1327 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
