1997 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2008 Volvo XC90 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 Volvo XC90. (185 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Volvo XC90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 156 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 2008 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. 2008 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mercedes-Benz S has manual transmission. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 2046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 72 L |
