2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (189 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 112 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. 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, 1996 Volvo 850, 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (260 Nm). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | 850 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1493 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2670 mm |
