2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (361 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 595 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 334 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (176 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | 480 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 361 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
