1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2008 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S80 (281 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S80 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volvo S80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S80 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 S80 (400 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | 2008 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 420 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 2953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.2:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2840 mm |
