1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2003 Volvo V70
To start off, 2003 Volvo V70 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V70 (207 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (109 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V70 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V70, 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 V70 (340 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2003 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 300 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
