2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1995 Volvo 850
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Volvo 850 (251 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. (241 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 295 kg more than 1995 Volvo 850.
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, 1995 Volvo 850, 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, both vehicles can yield 350 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1995 Volvo 850 has manual transmission. 1995 Volvo 850 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 | 1995 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | S | 850 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 2317 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 241 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 246 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 73 L |
