2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 3,199 cc, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 345 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (451 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 283 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1981 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1981 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | 240 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1986 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 106 HP |
| Torque | 451 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1635 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2660 mm |
