2006 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Volvo C70
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volvo C70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volvo C70 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo C70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo C70 (190 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 215 kg more than 1997 Volvo C70.
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, 1997 Volvo C70, 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 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo C70. (270 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo C70.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | 1997 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | C70 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 68 L |
