1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2006 Volvo S60
To start off, 2006 Volvo S60 is newer by 8 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 212 more horse power than 2006 Volvo S60. (177 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2006 Volvo S60. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo S60 weights approximately 148 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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, 2006 Volvo S60, 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) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volvo S60. (240 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volvo S60.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2006 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S60 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.1 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 2198 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
