1973 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Volvo V70
To start off, 2008 Volvo V70 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo V70 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo V70 weights approximately 1 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V70, 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, 2008 Volvo V70 (350 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | V70 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1611 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
