2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1970 Volvo 145
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volvo 145. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volvo 145 would be higher. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 391 more horse power than 1970 Volvo 145. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1970 Volvo 145. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 660 kg more than 1970 Volvo 145. 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 SL (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 648 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volvo 145. (152 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volvo 145.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1970 Volvo 145 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 145 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2620 mm |
