2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1989 Volvo 480
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 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 480 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 166 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 480. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 480. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 895 kg more than 1989 Volvo 480. 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 480, 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 (401 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 480. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 480. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1989 Volvo 480 has manual transmission. 1989 Volvo 480 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 480 | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
Model | S | 480 |
Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4266 cc | 1721 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 275 HP | 109 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 401 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.5 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1895 kg | 1000 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 80 L |