1981 Volvo 240 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 would be higher. At 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (621 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 510 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (111 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 996 kg more than 1981 Volvo 240. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (999 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 814 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (185 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1981 Volvo 240 has manual transmission. 1981 Volvo 240 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Volvo 240 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 240 | S |
Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2314 cc | 6000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 111 HP | 621 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 185 Nm | 999 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 2296 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 5245 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 3165 mm |