2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 50 kg more than 1999 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 Volvo S80, 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 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volvo S80. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | C | S80 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
