1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 1997 Volvo S70 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1997 Volvo S70. (162 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Volvo S70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 465 kg more than 1997 Volvo S70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (471 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volvo S70. (221 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volvo S70.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | SL | S70 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4973 cc | 2435 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 317 HP | 162 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 471 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1375 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 68 L |