1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Volvo C30
To start off, 2011 Volvo C30 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,985 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP) has 275 more horse power than 2011 Volvo C30. (114 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Volvo C30. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 729 kg more than 2011 Volvo C30. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo C30, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volvo C30. (270 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volvo C30. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2011 Volvo C30 has manual transmission. 2011 Volvo C30 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | C30 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5985 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4252 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 60 L |
