1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2002 Volvo S80
To start off, 2002 Volvo S80 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volvo S80 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 465 kg more than 2002 Volvo S80.
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, 2002 Volvo S80, 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, 2002 Volvo S80 (285 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Volvo S80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | 2002 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | S80 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
