1998 Volvo S80 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volvo S80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volvo S80 would be higher. At 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (621 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 421 more horse power than 1998 Volvo S80. (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Volvo S80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 643 kg more than 1998 Volvo S80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (999 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 719 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volvo S80. (280 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volvo S80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Volvo S80 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Volvo | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | S80 | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2922 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 621 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1653 kg | 2296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.3 L/100km | 19.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 90 L |
