2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1990 Volvo 960
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 960. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 960 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 289 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 960. (204 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 960. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 575 kg more than 1990 Volvo 960. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (801 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 534 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 960. (267 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 960. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1990 Volvo 960 has manual transmission. 1990 Volvo 960 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 | 1990 Volvo 960 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | 960 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 2922 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 204 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 801 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2135 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 80 L |
