1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2006 Volvo S60
To start off, 2006 Volvo S60 is newer by 35 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, 2006 Volvo S60 (209 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S60 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volvo S60 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S60 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Volvo S60 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2006 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S60 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 209 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
