1997 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2013 Volvo C30
To start off, 2013 Volvo C30 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volvo C30 (224 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 103 kg more than 2013 Volvo C30.
Because 1997 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz E.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz E | 2013 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | E | C30 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 224 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4266 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2039 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1447 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2640 mm |
