1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 is newer by 27 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP) has 2 more horse power than 2012 Volvo S80. (217 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2012 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo S80 weights approximately 159 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420.
Because 2012 Volvo S80 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volvo S80 (440 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | 420 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4196 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 219 HP | 217 HP |
| Torque | 329 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1759 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2776 mm |
