1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,524 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. (94 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250. (158 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 250 | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 250 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 158 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 16.8 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2720 mm |
