2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1988 Volvo 245
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 245. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 245 would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 179 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 245. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 245.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 245. (158 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 245. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1988 Volvo 245 has manual transmission. 1988 Volvo 245 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1988 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | 245 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2660 mm |
