1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volvo S80 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (78 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. 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, 1999 Volvo S80 (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1999 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 240 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3005 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
