1997 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 110 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 E (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | E | 260 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2660 mm |
