1995 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1988 Volvo 480
To start off, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 480. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 770 kg more than 1988 Volvo 480. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volvo 480, 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, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 480. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 480. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 480 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1988 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 480 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 58 L |
