1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2009 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2009 Volvo XC90 is newer by 11 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo XC90 (235 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo XC90 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 208 kg more than 2009 Volvo XC90.
Because 2009 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo XC90 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 | 2009 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 3192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1806 kg | 1598 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 80 L |
