1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Volvo C70
To start off, 2009 Volvo C70 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo C70 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo C70, 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, 2009 Volvo C70 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2009 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | C70 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3499 cc | 2519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2650 mm |
