1979 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V50 (161 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 172 kg more than 2005 Volvo V50.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50, 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | V50 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 62 L |
