1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 16 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 (220 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2005 Volvo V50. (208 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 2005 Volvo V50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300. (265 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 300 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.1 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2720 mm |
