1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 1997 Volvo S70 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,460 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (109 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 1997 Volvo S70 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (185 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 230 | S70 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2305 cc | 2460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 20.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
