1974 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 32 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 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo V50 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
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, 2006 Volvo V50, 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, 2006 Volvo V50 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Mercedes-Benz S | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | V50 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2744 cc | 2345 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 62 L |
