1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1966 Volvo 120
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP) has 123 more horse power than 1966 Volvo 120. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1966 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 750 kg more than 1966 Volvo 120. 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 SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Volvo 120. (145 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1966 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 120 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2797 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 84.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |
