2011 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Volvo C30
To start off, 2012 Volvo C30 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP) has 268 more horse power than 2012 Volvo C30. (114 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Volvo C30. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 640 kg more than 2012 Volvo C30. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Volvo C30. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volvo C30. (270 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volvo C30. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2012 Volvo C30 has manual transmission. 2012 Volvo C30 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | C30 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5500 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 382 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 530 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | AWD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2091 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5245 mm | 4252 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1872 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1473 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3165 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
