2002 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volvo 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (106 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 295 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1981 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1981 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz C | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | 240 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2660 mm |
