1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 66 kg more than 2005 Volvo V50.
Because 1986 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2005 Volvo V50 has manual transmission. 2005 Volvo V50 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 300 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 2318 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1479 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2800 mm |
