1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1981 Volvo 240
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volvo 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volvo 240 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 108 more horse power than 1981 Volvo 240. (96 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1981 Volvo 240.
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 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volvo 240. (127 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volvo 240.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1981 Volvo 240 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | SL | 240 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2127 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 204 HP | 96 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 127 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2660 mm |