2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 340 kg more than 1980 Volvo 260. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | 260 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2660 mm |
