1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2009 Volvo V50
To start off, 2009 Volvo V50 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo V50 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 2 kg more than 2009 Volvo V50.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 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 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo V50. (321 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2009 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 420 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2650 mm |
