2000 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL (217 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 695 kg more than 1989 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440, 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, 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL (316 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 440 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
