1975 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Volvo V50
To start off, 2008 Volvo V50 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo V50 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 148 kg more than 2008 Volvo V50.
Because 1975 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 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo V50 (232 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Mercedes-Benz S. (227 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | V50 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 227 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1462 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 60 L |
