1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2007 Volvo C30
To start off, 2007 Volvo C30 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo C30 (300 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 271 kg more than 2007 Volvo C30.
Because 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volvo C30 (400 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2007 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 280 | C30 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1279 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
