1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 9 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 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2005 Volvo V50. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Volvo V50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 401 kg more than 2005 Volvo V50. 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, 2005 Volvo V50, 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 (580 Nm) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volvo V50. (320 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volvo V50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | V50 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 2519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 376 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
