2007 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 590 kg more than 1990 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | 480 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
