1996 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC90 is newer by 16 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 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2012 Volvo XC90. (240 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 151 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2012 Volvo XC90 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, 2012 Volvo XC90 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 (470 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volvo XC90. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volvo XC90.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | 2012 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4973 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2004 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3150 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
