1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Volvo S80
To start off, 2008 Volvo S80 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,985 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 2008 Volvo S80. (235 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 599 kg more than 2008 Volvo S80. 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo S80. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | S80 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5985 cc | 3192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1581 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 70 L |
