1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC90 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 XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC90 (240 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 345 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 2012 Volvo XC90 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, 2012 Volvo XC90 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, 2012 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC90 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 XC90 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | XC90 |
| 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 | 4WD |
| 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 | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 80 L |
