1974 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (198 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 185 kg more than 1999 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1974 Mercedes-Benz S (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volvo S80. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1974 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | S80 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3499 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 286 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2800 mm |
