1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2008 Volvo C30
To start off, 2008 Volvo C30 is newer by 32 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 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo C30 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. (109 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 29 kg more than 2008 Volvo C30.
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, 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, both vehicles can yield 185 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2008 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 230 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.7 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1327 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
