2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 960. (120 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 960 weights approximately 224 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 (350 Nm) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (143 Nm). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1990 Volvo 960 has manual transmission. 1990 Volvo 960 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | E | 960 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2780 mm |
