1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2008 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2008 Volvo XC70 is newer by 12 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 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 2008 Volvo XC70. (235 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo XC70.
Because 2008 Volvo XC70 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volvo XC70 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 SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volvo XC70. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volvo XC70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2008 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5956 cc | 3192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 375 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.7 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.2 L/100km | 15.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 14 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
