1998 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2012 Volvo S80
To start off, 2012 Volvo S80 is newer by 14 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (221 HP) has 4 more horse power than 2012 Volvo S80. (217 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2012 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 47 kg more than 2012 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Volvo S80 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo S80 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, 2012 Volvo S80 (440 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | S80 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 217 HP |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1806 kg | 1759 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 67 L |
