1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2002 Volvo S60
To start off, 2002 Volvo S60 is newer by 4 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 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volvo S60 (295 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 359 kg more than 2002 Volvo S60.
Because 2002 Volvo S60 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volvo S60 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, 2002 Volvo S60 (400 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2002 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S60 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 295 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 68 L |
