1997 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2008 Volvo C30
To start off, 2008 Volvo C30 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (303 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 2008 Volvo C30. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo C30. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 243 kg more than 2008 Volvo C30. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (410 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo C30. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo C30. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2008 Volvo C30 has manual transmission. 2008 Volvo C30 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | 2008 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | C30 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 303 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5850 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 10.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1327 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 55 L |
