2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1986 Volvo 242
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volvo 242. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volvo 242 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volvo 242 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1986 Volvo 242. (97 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1986 Volvo 242. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1540 kg more than 1986 Volvo 242. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Volvo 242. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Volvo 242.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1986 Volvo 242 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | 242 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2660 mm |
