2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1987 Volvo 480
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1987 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1987 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 765 kg more than 1987 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1987 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | 480 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1719 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
