1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Volvo XC60
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC60 is newer by 14 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC60 (240 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC60 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC60 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2012 Volvo XC60, 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, 2012 Volvo XC60 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC60 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 | 2012 Volvo XC60 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | XC60 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1712 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2748 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
