1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2013 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2013 Volvo XC90 is newer by 17 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 80 more horse power than 2013 Volvo XC90. (237 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2013 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 297 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2013 Volvo XC90, 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 151 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volvo XC90. (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volvo XC90. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2013 Volvo XC90 has manual transmission. 2013 Volvo XC90 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2013 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | 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 | 6 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 237 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 471 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 2137 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4807 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1936 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1784 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2857 mm |
