2002 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1980 Volvo 66
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 66. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 66 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 437 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 66. (56 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 66.
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 706 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Volvo 66. (94 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Volvo 66. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1980 Volvo 66 has manual transmission. 1980 Volvo 66 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1980 Volvo 66 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volvo |
| Model | SL | 66 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1287 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1550 mm |
