1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2007 Volvo S80
To start off, 2007 Volvo S80 is newer by 29 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 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S80 (197 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S80 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 662 kg more than 2007 Volvo S80.
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, 2007 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, 2007 Volvo S80 (300 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (231 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo S80 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 | 2007 Volvo S80 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | S | S80 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2998 cc | 2521 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2215 kg | 1553 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4860 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2840 mm |