2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (125 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (240 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1996 Volvo 850 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | 850 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1984 cc |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 58 L |
