1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 23 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 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. (63 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 65 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.
Because 1973 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240. (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 240 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2404 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2670 mm |
