1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1989 Volvo 480
To start off, 1989 Volvo 480 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 610 kg more than 1989 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 480, 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 S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 480. (141 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 1989 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | 480 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2510 mm |
