2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1987 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 21 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), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1987 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1987 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 474 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (250 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1987 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Sedan | 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 | 181 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1494 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
