1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 460 would be higher. At 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (118 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 819 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 460, 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 460 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 460 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | 460 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4965 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 60 L |
