1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2005 Volvo S60
To start off, 2005 Volvo S60 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S60 (257 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo S60 weights approximately 94 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S60, 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 S60 (350 Nm) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2005 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 300 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1539 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
