2012 Volvo C30 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2012 Volvo C30. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2012 Volvo C30 would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (523 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 296 more horse power than 2012 Volvo C30. (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2012 Volvo C30. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 394 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo C30, 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (800 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 480 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volvo C30. (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volvo C30.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Volvo C30 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | C30 | SL |
Year Released | 2012 | 2013 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2500 cc | 5500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 227 HP | 523 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 800 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | 4-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1451 kg | 1845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4252 mm | 4633 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1783 mm | 2099 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1448 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2585 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.1 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 13.9 L/100km |