2009 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Volvo V50. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Volvo V50 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 145 more horse power than 2003 Volvo V50. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2003 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 372 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz E.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50, 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 E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volvo V50. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | E | V50 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1698 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 62 L |
