1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1994 Volvo 960
To start off, 1994 Volvo 960 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1994 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1994 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1994 Volvo 960. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 233 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 280 | 1994 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 280 | 960 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2780 mm |
