2006 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1989 Volvo 480
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 722 kg more than 1989 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 E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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 E (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 480. (141 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | 1989 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | E | 480 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1722 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2510 mm |
