1981 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1990 Volvo 480
To start off, 1990 Volvo 480 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 560 kg more than 1990 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1981 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mercedes-Benz S | 1990 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | 480 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1990 |
| 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 | 154 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2510 mm |
