1989 Volvo 740 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP) has 363 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 740. (155 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 740. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 567 kg more than 1989 Volvo 740. 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 SL (630 Nm) has 427 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 740. (203 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 740. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 740 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 740 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volvo 740 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 740 | SL |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2315 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 518 HP |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 630 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1372 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1816 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2560 mm |
