1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2005 Volvo S80
To start off, 2005 Volvo S80 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S80 (161 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (80 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S80 weights approximately 22 kg more than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S80, 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, 2005 Volvo S80 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2005 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 300 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3005 cc | 2442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 80 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 148 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1467 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
