1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 vs. 2002 Volvo V70
To start off, 2002 Volvo V70 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volvo V70 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (130 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volvo V70 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volvo V70 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. (198 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230. 2002 Volvo V70 has automatic transmission and 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 has manual transmission. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volvo V70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 230 | 2002 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 230 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
