1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 28 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 7 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (161 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 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 165 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volvo S80. (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | SL | S80 |
Year Released | 1971 | 1999 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1525 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2800 mm |