1981 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1992 Volvo 850
To start off, 1992 Volvo 850 is newer by 11 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, 1992 Volvo 850 (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 120 kg more than 1992 Volvo 850.
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, 1992 Volvo 850, 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, 1992 Volvo 850 (230 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mercedes-Benz S | 1992 Volvo 850 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | S | 850 |
Year Released | 1981 | 1992 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 154 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 223 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1440 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4670 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2510 mm |