2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,685 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (175 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 330 kg more than 1979 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1979 Volvo 260. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1979 Volvo 260 has manual transmission. 1979 Volvo 260 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz C | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | 260 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2685 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2660 mm |
