2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2009 Volvo V50
To start off, 2009 Volvo V50 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2009 Volvo V50. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2009 Volvo V50.
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, 2009 Volvo V50, 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, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 2009 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | V50 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
