1998 Volvo C70 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo C70 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo C70 (190 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (156 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volvo C70, 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, 1998 Volvo C70 (270 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo C70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1998 Volvo C70 has manual transmission. 1998 Volvo C70 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volvo C70 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | C70 | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2435 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 66 L |
