1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1996 Volvo V70
To start off, 1996 Volvo V70 is newer by 18 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, 1996 Volvo V70 (193 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 206 kg more than 1996 Volvo V70.
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, 1996 Volvo V70, 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, 1996 Volvo V70 (275 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo V70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | 1996 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | V70 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 193 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 70 L |
