1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1979 Volvo 260
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1979 Volvo 260. (146 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1979 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 540 kg more than 1979 Volvo 260. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volvo 260. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volvo 260.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 1979 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | 260 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2660 mm |
