1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2010 Volvo S80
To start off, 2010 Volvo S80 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volvo S80 (235 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. (195 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 49 kg more than 2010 Volvo S80.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 (358 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Volvo S80. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2010 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 300 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4519 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 358 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1706 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4851 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1494 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2835 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 82 L | 70 L |
