1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1978 Volvo 66
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volvo 66 would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1978 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Volvo 66.
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 @ 3000 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volvo 66. (94 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volvo 66. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1978 Volvo 66 has manual transmission. 1978 Volvo 66 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1978 Volvo 66 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 66 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1550 mm |
