2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1989 Volvo 460
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 460 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 375 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 460. (118 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 460. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1079 kg more than 1989 Volvo 460. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 460, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 626 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 460. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 460. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 460 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 460 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 | 1989 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | 460 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.8 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 60 L |
