1981 Volvo 260 vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volvo 260 (153 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. (139 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 630 kg more than 1981 Volvo 260.
Because 1981 Volvo 260 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 1981 Volvo 260. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz V, 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, 1981 Volvo 260 (231 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V. (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz V.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volvo 260 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 260 | V |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2849 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4890 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3010 mm |
