2003 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1989 Volvo 480
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 720 kg more than 1989 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 480, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | 1989 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | E | 480 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.2 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
