2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (210 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 225 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E.
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 E (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 402 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 260. (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | E | 260 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2987 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 542 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2660 mm |
