1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 1997 Volvo S70 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (231 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (124 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 (273 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 300 | S70 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 231 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 273 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2670 mm |
