1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1963 Volvo 120
To start off, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP) has 101 more horse power than 1963 Volvo 120. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1963 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 350 kg more than 1963 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Volvo 120. (144 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1963 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 120 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2610 mm |
