1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1974 Volvo 245
To start off, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 (185 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 245. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 245. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 136 kg more than 1974 Volvo 245. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1974 Volvo 245. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 245. (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 245. 1974 Volvo 245 has automatic transmission and 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volvo 245 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1974 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 300 | 245 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2125 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1394 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 60 L |
