1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 (323 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 185 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 397 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 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 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, 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 500 (450 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mercedes-Benz 500 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | 500 | 850 |
Year Released | 1989 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4973 cc | 2461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 323 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 450 Nm | 290 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1493 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |