1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volvo S80 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (241 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volvo S80. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 280 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
