1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S80 (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S. (148 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S weights approximately 140 kg more than 2004 Volvo S80.
Because 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S 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 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80, 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, 2004 Volvo S80 (281 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S. (230 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S. 2004 Volvo S80 has automatic transmission and 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S has manual transmission. 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Mercedes-Benz 300S | 2004 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 300S | S80 |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90 mm |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2910 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 80 L |
