1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1988 Volvo 480 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 @ 5750 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 300 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480, 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 SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 480 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2510 mm |
