1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 2003 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2003 Volvo V50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 280 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 2442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 10 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 62 L |
