1978 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2008 Volvo XC90 is newer by 30 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 52 more horse power than 2008 Volvo XC90. (105 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 372 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2008 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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 XC90 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo XC90 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 | 2008 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1982 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 72 L |
