2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 658 kg more than 1988 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, 1988 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 (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 480 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 | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | 480 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 269 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1720 kg | 1062 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 58 L |
