2005 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Volvo 960
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (349 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 960. (168 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 135 kg more than 1996 Volvo 960. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz C (450 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 960. (233 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 960. 2005 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 960 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 960 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 | 1996 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | 960 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 2472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 349 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4550 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2780 mm |
