2008 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1978 Volvo 265
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 265. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 265 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 265. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 265. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Volvo 265 weights approximately 289 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volvo 265. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will offer significantly more control. 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 E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 265. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 265.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | 1978 Volvo 265 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | E | 265 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
