1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1999 Volvo S80
To start off, 1999 Volvo S80 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (389 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1999 Volvo S80. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1999 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 560 kg more than 1999 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volvo S80, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volvo S80. (220 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volvo S80. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1999 Volvo S80 has manual transmission. 1999 Volvo S80 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 | 1999 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S80 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
