1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2009 Volvo S80
To start off, 2009 Volvo S80 is newer by 11 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 78 more horse power than 2009 Volvo S80. (311 HP @ 5950 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2009 Volvo S80.
Because 2009 Volvo S80 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, 2009 Volvo S80 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volvo S80. (441 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2009 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | S80 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5987 cc | 4412 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5950 RPM |
| Torque | 570 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
