1964 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1999 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 188 kg more than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 1964 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 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL. (196 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S80 |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2306 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2800 mm |
